Youth need to take an active role in decision making processes on the institutional, local and national level. This will ensure that their rights and needs are reflected in policies and programmes. It will ensure timely transition of youth into adulthood and prepare them for future citizens and leaders of the country. This requires adults to ensure that adequate space and support is provided for youth participation.

Support to adolescents and youth to take more active roles in communities in promotion and protection of their rights – be it health, education, protection from violence, right to play and sport – is another key priority for the United Nations team in Serbia, whose efforts are spearheaded by UNICEF playing a key role in strengthening participation of youth within local communities, particularly in those municipalities implementing Local Plans of Action for Children and Youth.

Indeed, promoting increased youth participation in social development, at the local and central levels, through providing support and opportunities for youth to practice their right to participate has been a key area of focus for UNICEF's work in Serbia.