Last week, Odesa hosted the event ‘Youth & Politics: Points of Contact’, organised by the Odesa Youth Movement in partnership with the Department of Internal Policy of the Odesa City Council. This event became a platform for dialogue between ambitious young people who are ready to take responsibility for the future of the country. The Ukraine Rebuilding Alliance joined the co-organisation of this event, as we are convinced that young people are the driving force of change.
The event began with speeches by reputable speakers, including Pavlo Unguryan, Chairman of the Supervisory Board of the Alliance, and Oleh Etnarovych, a member of the Odesa City Council. They shared their vision of the transformation of Ukraine’s political culture.
‘Ukraine’s political culture often enters into an existential struggle between a paternalistic approach and republican ideals. We cannot ignore the fact that many behavioural patterns are formed in childhood. Raising a generation capable of thinking critically, taking responsibility and unlocking their own talent is our most important task. Young people must not only overcome old patterns but also create new ones based on freedom, transparency and service to society,’ said Pavlo Ungurian.
In an open discussion format, the participants discussed the moral, spiritual and professional qualities needed by young politicians, ways to overcome systemic challenges in public administration, and practical steps to engage young people in social and political life.
‘Real politics begins where there is a desire to serve people. Young people have a chance to break the vicious circle if they are ready for change and remain honest with themselves and society,’ said Veniamin Unguryan, a member of the Odesa Regional Council.
The event brought together a hundred participants who not only listened but also actively participated in the discussions. Networking, informal communication and powerful ideas were an important addition to the speakers’ presentations. We are convinced that the more proactive and talented young people get involved in public administration, the faster Ukraine will recover from the war.
