“Coffee with Politicians” in Rezekne
Informal discussion event “Coffee with Politicians”, was organized in Rezekne, Latvia on 30.09.2025. Young people from Rēzekne met with the leaders of the city council, deputies and municipal specialists. The aim of the meeting was to strengthen dialogue between young people and decision-makers, to learn how to discuss, analyze, evaluate and gain new knowledge about issues relevant to youth.
The event was attended by students delegated from educational institutions, members of the Youth Consultative Commission, as well as Rēzekne City Council deputies.
During the discussions, young people worked in five groups, each developing proposals in different areas. When talking about youth participation and civic engagement, the importance of access to information in schools was emphasized, as well as the need for informal meetings with decision-makers and the opportunity to attend city council meetings. Concrete initiatives were also proposed – the creation of sports fields, a tea house and informal spaces for young people.
Rēzekne as the Youth Capital (Rezekne city got nomination as Capital of Youth in Latvia 2026) was seen as an opportunity to strengthen long-term youth policy – by promoting more active involvement of schools and youth organizations, developing volunteer work, attracting supporters and organizing various festivals, sports and cultural events.
In the topic of education, employment and internship opportunities, young people highlighted the need for closer cooperation with entrepreneurs to ensure internship placements, job shadowing opportunities and educational excursions. They also emphasized the importance of developing digital skills, STEM fields and entrepreneurship programs with mentor support, as well as ensuring access to information about career and educational opportunities.
In the field of culture, leisure and mental health, young people proposed expanding the range of clubs and associations, promoting the development of youth work, providing free psychological assistance for all youth age groups and organizing more informal activities, discussion groups and support circles.
Special attention was given to activities and events – young people would like to see a more diverse range of options: from discos, open-air dances, sports days, and video game competitions to street art festivals, scavenger hunts and talent shows. To engage at-risk youth, it was suggested to conduct surveys, involve bloggers, use popular communication platforms, and offer volunteering opportunities, motivating participation with rewards and other initiatives.
