Strengthening Democracy

Background

Low level of involvement and participation of youth in public and political life is a significant problem in Moldova. Despite the existence of several information structures, channels and networks, a great number of young lack access to information on how to participate in democratic life. High school students graduate with limited understanding of the functions of state institutions, the mechanisms of civic participation and involvement in political life while high school curricula do not sufficiently address these issues. On reaching voting age, young students have a limited awareness of the significance of democratic rules and procedures in general and of the role and importance of elections in particular. Many first-time voters are not even aware that they are allowed to vote at the age of 18. 

Objective

The project contributes to the improvement of the democratic process in Moldova through increased young people's civic participation.

The project aims to empower and motivate young and first time voters (YFTV) in 8 communities to actively participate in upcoming elections by enhancing the knowledge and awareness of YFTV, local administration and local CSOs in election mechanisms and procedures. 

Activities

• Tailor-made Information campaign for an enhanced attitude of young and first time voters towards elections and voting;
• Baseline survey on needs and concerns of YFTVs;
• PR materials/ website elaboration; Press conference; community public events;
• Capacity Building for election counsellors;
• Training Program for election counsellors;
• Intensive trainings for election counsellors;
• Set-up of mobile help points;
• Mock election programme for YFTV;
• Mock Elections Methodology;
• Mock Elections; Feedback rounds;
• Dissemination workshops and National Conference.

Target Group

• 800 YFTV from the target communities;
• 8 trained election counsellors;
• 400 representatives of CSOs and local administration;
• At least 8,000 young people will be reached by information campaign.

Region

Municipality Chisinau (Budesti, Colonita); Rayon (region) Riscani (Costesti/Corlateni town. Riscani); Raion Drochia (town Drochia, Pelinia / Sofia); Raion Hincesti (Lapusna, Carpineni/Mingir)

This project is supported by