The Albanian initiative “I Vote Too!” was presented at the 2025 World Forum for Democracy at the Council of Europe, under the theme “Democracy at risk: how can we revive it?”. Featured in the session “Beyond the ballot: youth-led innovations boosting Democracy”, the initiative highlights how young people are reshaping democratic participation beyond traditional voting. The discussion focused on innovative approaches and civic engagement strategies to empower youth to strengthen democratic institutions.

Supported by the Council of Europe through the project Strengthening Elections Integrity in Albania, funded by the Federal Republic of Germany, and implemented with the Central Election Commission (CEC) and the National Agency of Pre-University Education (AKAP), “I Vote Too!” has reached over 20,000 high school graduates across 335 schools, equipping first-time voters with essential knowledge.

Erjon Tase, Director of the Academy of Political Studies, presented the programme as a model for youth civic engagement. By combining accredited teacher training, classroom learning, and mock elections, the initiative offers young people hands-on experience in the electoral process. A survey of teachers and students revealed that schools are the main source of electoral information, reinforcing the program’s goal of integrating electoral education into Albania’s formal curriculum.

“I Vote Too!” illustrates the Council of Europe's commitment to inclusive democracy and offers a model for other member states seeking to boost youth participation in democratic life.

Learn more about this and other innovative ideas discussed at the Forum in the published video.