The YCC staff were truly honored to host the US Ambassador H.E. Kate Marie Byrnes at the discussion “Let’s talk about corruption” organized by Democracy Lab. Among the honorable guests was the Mayor of Gostivar, Mr. Arben Taravari, chairman of the Municipal Council of Gostivar, Mr. Valbon Limani, as well as members of the Municipal Council of Gostivar - representatives of various political parties. Also present were civil society representatives, young people and YCC volunteers, and other CSO activists.

The Executive Director of Democracy Lab Mr. Sefer Selimi had welcoming remarks and shared some of the major achievements, and the most important activities and projects that the YCC has implemented since its establishment. The discussion with the US Ambassador H.E. Kate Marie Byrnes and the attendees was moderated by Mr. Emir Hasanovic – Western Balkans Coordinator at the Institute for Strategic Dialogue (ISD).

The topic of this debate was corruption in Northern Macedonia and the challenges that citizens face in relation to it. The debate also discussed ways in which corruption can be prevented and suppressed, and how young people and individuals, in general, can influence it.

Attendees had the opportunity to share their views, opinions, and experiences on this topic. The interactive debate contributed to the active participation of those present, which helped to identify the main challenges, problems, and possible solutions related to systemic corruption that has a negative impact on all of us.