Panel Discussion: “Youth, Climate Justice, and Institutions”

Moderated by Ana Zafirova, the panel included key speakers from various sectors:

• Dušica Perišić – Executive Director of ZELS
• Andrijana Gjelevska – Expert in Action Research
• Filip Ivkovski – Former President of the National Youth Council of Macedonia
• Aleksandra Dimitrievska Avramovska – Head of the Department for Municipal and Environmental Inspection

The discussion focused on the challenges faced by youth and professionals in advocating for climate justice, including limited access to tools and youth structures, lack of institutional support and motivation, dysfunctional systems, and insufficient infrastructure for active citizen engagement.

Presentation of the Action Research

Participants had the opportunity to hear the key findings from the action research “From Diversity to Justice – Equal in the Right to a Healthy and Sustainable Environment.” The research highlighted the need for systemic change and broader inclusion in environmental policies and practices.

Appreciation and Next Steps

We extend our sincere gratitude to all speakers, participants, and partners for their contributions, ideas, and engagement. The forum marked an important step toward building a shared vision for a just transition and a sustainable society, where the voices of youth and civil society organizations are meaningfully included in decision-making processes.

The project “ZZZ – Together for Green Advocacy for Environmental Protection” is supported by the Government of Switzerland through the Civica Mobilitas program, in partnership with the Center for Youth Activism KRIK, the Center for Social Initiatives “Nadez,” and the Association of Social Workers of Macedonia – ZSRM.

Photography: Svetislav Podleshanov and Kiril Karakash