The National Training “Listening, Learning, Acting – Fostering Empathy” for youth workers from non-governmental organizations and local youth councils from various municipalities in Albania was held in Tirana during the period of June 23 – June 27, 2025.

Participants were introduced to basic concepts such as inclusion, leave no one behind, non-discrimination, youth participation, accountability and human rights-based approach. Additionally, participants deepened their knowledge of European youth programs including the Inclusion and Diversity Strategy; Erasmus+ Youth and ESC, EU Youth Objectives, and EU Youth Strategy 2019–2027 by exploring how these programs and strategies can be better utilized to support inclusion and participation. They engaged in different interactive techniques designed to foster empathy towards young people with a focus on the NEET category. Participants worked on mapping interest groups and identified existing opportunities, missing opportunities, and available resources for young people in unfavorable situations within their local contexts. As a practical part of the training, participants engaged in simulation-based activities where various inclusive methods were demonstrated, allowing youth workers to test and reflect on facilitation approaches in real life, in a safe and supportive environment.

The National Training was carried out as part of the project “Not Neat to be NEET” implemented by the consortium members from Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, Albania and Kosovo funded by the European Union, under Erasmus + Program.

This project is funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or European Education and Culture Executive Agency (EACEA). Neither the European Union nor the EACEA can be held responsible for them.