The EU Delegation to North Macedonia is among the first in the Western Balkans to constitute a Young Advisory Board. Setting up this body is part of a broader initiative stemming from the EU's strategic documents on young people, which underline that the voice of the generations that will shape the future of Europe and the world should be heard loud and clear - already now.

The Delegation's Board was established on 30 January 2026, a couple of months after European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen had got her own Youth Advisory Board.

The idea is to create not a mere consultative body, but a platform for dialogue between the EU Delegation and the youth of North Macedonia. And thus make sure that the EU activities in the country are making a change for the youth, including helping them to grow their potential and make the most of it to succeed in their own communities.

Through workshops, consultative events and quarterly meetings, the Youth Advisory Board will define opinions on the EU's activities, in particular the ones related to the Growth Plan for the Western Balkans, planning and implementation of the pre-accession assistance (IPA), and the country's EU integration path, including the annual report by the European Commission.

"Our expectations are high because we believe in the immense potential within each of you. We encourage you to share your expectations, thoughts and be courageous in proposing new ideas. Together, we will make sure that EU initiatives remain meaningful and useful for you, the young people of North Macedonia. And together, we will make an impact", stated EU Ambassador Michalis Rokas at the constitutive session of the Board.

Young people make up nearly 21% of the population in North Macedonia. Recent data shows that 80% of people aged 18-24 support EU membership - a remarkable rise from just 60% in 2024.