Over twenty-five young people from across the Republic of Moldova, many of them first-time voters, actively participated in a three-day Electoral School. This initiative aimed to equip participants with knowledge and practical skills for the upcoming Presidential election and the European Union related constitutional referendum scheduled for October 20, 2024.

Young people, aged between 18 and 23, were selected in an open call and were guided by the trainers from the Council of Europe and the Centre for Continuous Electoral Training (CICDE). Participants learned how to use social media platforms to gather information about electoral candidates. They were introduced to the definitions and principles of elections and electoral management, learned strategies and methods to involve other peers in the voting process and promote youth priorities during the electoral campaign, and became familiar with the Council of Europe toolkit Vote Outside the Box etc. Additionally, they gained insights into the significance and potential beneficial consequences of the EU-related constitutional referendum.

The young people took part in role-plays, activities and exercises, learned about public speaking and were even involved in a voting simulation.

During this event, participants demonstrated a strong commitment of the young people of Republic of Moldova toward democracy, ensuring that their voices are heard and that their votes count in shaping the European future of Moldova.

„Electoral School is a phenomenal initiative and a good opportunity to understand the intricacies of the electoral field. This activity is a platform for communication between young people who want to live in a democratic society and develop democratic values in contemporary society”, said Cristian Chirica, a student at the lyceum „Pro Succes” from Chisinau, one of the participants to the event.

Another participant Nadelia Braghiș, a student at Babeș-Bolyai University, Romania, assessed the quality of the event:

„The trainers were open, well prepared and gave us a detailed account of the whole electoral cycle. Elections are the essence of political democracy, so it was very helpful and really interesting to learn about the violations that electoral candidates can commit, the responsibility of the Central Electoral Commission and the procedure for registering to run for elections. Similarly, the essence of the School was the election simulation activity itself, which was fascinating with its multimedia and diversity of roles. Thanks to the organizers for their valuable information and dedication”, said Nadelia.

The activity was undertaken by the Council of Europe Project Improving Electoral Practice in the Republic of Moldova, Phase III in cooperation with the Centre for Continuous Electoral Training.