During the session, the first drafts of the participants’ investigative articles were carefully reviewed and discussed. The young writers engaged in critical reading exercises, exchanged feedback with one another, and received guidance from mentors with experience in journalism and civic oversight. The atmosphere was both constructive and empowering, as each participant was encouraged to refine their work and sharpen their journalistic voice.
The session wasn’t simply about grammar or structure—it was about strengthening the credibility, accuracy, and impact of their investigations. Together, the group examined how to frame evidence, present data, and ask the right questions to reveal how public money is spent, where it is invested, and where transparency may be lacking.
This process forms a crucial part of the project’s broader mission: to foster a culture of accountability, critical thinking, and civic responsibility among young people in Lezha. By empowering youth to become watchdogs and storytellers of their communities, the project helps close the gap between citizens and institutions.
The next stages of the initiative will focus on refining the articles for publication, presenting findings to the public, and encouraging further youth involvement in civic monitoring. With growing awareness and engagement, these young voices are becoming important agents of change in promoting transparency and public interest.
This intervention is supported by the BAT Monitor Program (Budget Accountability and Transparency), implemented by the Institute for Democracy and Mediation (IDM) and funded by the European Union.
