Background and Purpose

Since 2017, RWI has been playing a key role in the SAYP module “Perspectives on Multi-level Governance, Decentralization & Human Rights” module. In collaboration with Lund University Commissioned Education (LUCE) and the Lund University School of Economics and Management (LUSEM), RWI supports participants in applying a Human Rights-Based Approach (HRBA) to governance. The program fosters regional cooperation and mutual learning, aiming to equip a new generation of leaders with the skills needed to meet the demands of modern governance systems.

“Usually, when we think about young professionals, we do not see them as leaders, but that is something that we would like to see more. Making passive more active to show that young people do not need to be the ones only following what their senior colleagues say, but they can make a change themselves. That is a step to leadership,” says Zuzana Zalanova, Director of RWI’s Regional Europe Office, who is in charge of SAYP on behalf of RWI.

Challenges and Opportunities Addressed

The program addresses the challenges of integrating human rights principles into governance frameworks across countries in the Western Balkans, Eastern Partnership, and Baltic regions. Many participants already contribute to vital reform processes in their countries, working across government, politics, academia, and civil society.

Public administrations in these regions face increasing demands for transparency, decentralization, and respect for human rights. RWI’s contribution to SAYP offers a unique opportunity for participants to learn how to tackle these issues within their own countries, focusing on the protection of human rights at all levels of government.

Moreover, in the context of countries-candidates for EU accession, like Ukraine or Moldova, this program serves as a great introduction into the EU governance practices. Thus, it helps bring up the new generation of leaders, who will facilitate this historical step of their countries.

Key Activities and Learning Opportunities

Through a combination of online and in-person modules, the program offers both theoretical knowledge and hands-on experience by engaging in interactive workshops and meeting professionals on field trips. Participants explore real-world governance challenges, develop plans for local reforms, and exchange ideas with peers from across the Western Balkans, Eastern Partnership, and Baltic Sea regions.

The program not only strengthens individual participants’ abilities but also fosters long-term regional cooperation by building networks of professionals dedicated to transparency, accountability, and human rights. After completing the modules, participants continue to receive support through follow-up events, as well as membership in the extensive alumni networks of Lund University and the Swedish Institute. They are thus encouraged to continue collaborating with peers, reinforcing their commitment to public accountability and human rights in their countries.