The project “A Generation at Risk: Addressing Youth Crime and School Safety Through Informed Research and Reform”, supported by the Open Society Foundation for the Western Balkans and implemented by IDM Albania in partnership with KCSS, seeks to respond to the escalating challenges of youth security in Albania and Kosovo. Increasing levels of violence and criminal behaviour among minors—particularly within and around school environments—have revealed significant institutional shortcomings, including weak conflict-resolution mechanisms, inadequate supervision, limited psychological support, and the unregulated influence of digital platforms on youth behaviour.
This initiative aims to foster safer and more inclusive school and community environments by deepening the understanding of youth security issues and strengthening institutional responses to violence involving minors. Using a qualitative research approach—interviews and focus groups with students, parents, teachers, and local authorities—combined with innovative, simulation-based learning such as tabletop exercises and youth-led hackathons, the project will produce actionable insights and pilot practical solutions.
Aligned with national education and security strategies, the project will expand knowledge on the drivers of school-based youth violence, empower young people to contribute to local safety mechanisms, enhance prevention efforts through targeted educational and outreach tools, and encourage policy and practice changes among schools, local authorities, and law enforcement.
Expected results include:
A deeper understanding of the dynamics of youth violence in schools;
Meaningful youth engagement in shaping local safety policies and mechanisms;
Strengthened prevention strategies through educational tools and public outreach;
Policy adoption and institutional practice improvements informed by validated findings and stakeholder consultations.
The project began implementation on 19 November 2025 and will conclude on 18 November 2026.
