Young people from Gagauzia established a Youth Center in the village of Dezginja, with EU support

August 10, 2023 – The Youth Centre was established by the Association of Youth in Gagauzia (AO Tineretul Găgăuziei) in the framework of the EU4Accountability project, funded by the European Union and implemented by People in Need (PIN) Moldova. According to PIN Moldova, this momentous event marks a significant step towards enhancing collaboration between Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) and Local Public Authorities (LPAs) in the region.

The Youth Centre aims to provide a nurturing environment for the holistic development of young people by providing access to a range of educational, recreational and cultural opportunities. It will serve as a space for interactive workshops, vocational training, sporting events, and community-driven initiatives that meet the needs and aspirations of the local youth.

"Youth engagement is a priority of the European Union, as set out in the Youth Action Plan in the EU's external action. The priorities are to engage, empower and connect young people. Youth is the driver of change and democracy in Moldova and in the world. It is important to involve young people at all levels of policy making in order to take stock of their knowledge and civic engagement and to design inclusive and targeted local development and social policies", stated Jānis Mažeiks, Ambassador of the European Union to the Republic of Moldova.

"I express my appreciation for this initiative and for the active young people that are engaged and work collectively with CSOs on future projects that further the village's development and well-being of the entire community", added Vasilii Capsamun, mayor of the Dezginja village.

“The inauguration of the Youth Centre in Dezginja marks the beginning of a new era of collaboration, empowerment, and progress. It stands as a testament to the potential that can be unlocked when CSOs and LPAs work hand in hand for the betterment of their communities”, declared Guillermo Llinás, Country Director of People in Need Moldova on behalf of the consortium implementing the EU4Accountability project.

“Young people have fresh ideas, innovative thinking and creativity. Working within the platform contributes to the development of more effective and modern approaches to solving complex problems that may not be accessible to the elderly generation”, concluded Marina Uzun, the head of the newly opened Youth Centre.

The Youth Centre in Dezginja was established on the initiative of the Youth Association of Gagauzia, thanks to a grant from the EU in the framework of the EU4Accountability programme. Part of the grant, amounting to EUR 4 000, was invested in the renovation of the office of the Youth Centre in Dezginja.