Fair and free elections constitute the essence and base of democracy. Young people should be aware on the importance of elections and the values implied and they should understand that democracy matters and that their vote counts.

For over a decade the Council of Europe is supporting education of voters in Albania with particular focus on first time voters. In partnership with the Academy of Political Studies, the Central Election Commission and the Ministry of Education, Sport and Youth, a new national election education programme started today reaching out to 35 000 matura students at national level.

By means of this programme, matura students shall be introduced in theory and practice to the democratic election process with its different stages and organize mock elections in 385 high schools in Albania. The aim is to show the students how democratic elections work and that they can take place not only to elect the central and local institutions, but also at their own school.

The moto of the campaign this year will be: Take 4 minutes to decide for your next 4 years!