The workshop focused on strengthening democratic resilience through meaningful youth participation. It featured expert presentations, interactive group exercises, and in-depth discussions on electoral integrity and voter rights.

Participants explored the role of young people not only as voters, but also as educators, and election observers, particularly in elections supported by digital technologies, while reflecting on international and Council of Europe standards. The sessions also addressed electoral violations, challenges for voters to make an informed choice, and strategies to defend electoral rights.

Strong emphasis was given on the human rights dimension of elections, with experts leading group exercises exploring the links between broader democratic freedoms and electoral processes. Sessions on the case law of the European Court of Human Rights (ECtHR) deepened participants’ understanding on how electoral disputes can be resolved through international legal mechanisms.

Another key part of the programme, titled “Youth for Change”, focused on the experiences of first-time voters, youth citizen engagement, and discussed barriers to participation. Discussions emphasized the importance of youth voices being heard in parliaments and governments and encouraged participants to think creatively through the session “Vote Outside the Box”.

The workshop concluded with reflections on the challenges of enforcing electoral law and final presentations outlining youth-led strategies to enhance civic engagement and protect voting rights.

Organised within the framework of the Council of Europe Project “Supporting Transparency, Inclusiveness and Integrity of Electoral Practice and Process in Georgia”, with the participation of the colleagues from the Council of Europe’s Office in Georgia. The event highlighted the vital role of young people in building inclusive, accountable, and participatory democratic institutions.