CHALLENGES
North Macedonia has been ranked among the European countries which are least resilient to disinformation. This leads to societal divisions, lack of trust, polarization, and reduced social cohesion. At the same time, there is recognition that to become involved in and contribute to democratic processes, all citizens—especially youth—should have better developed media literacy and critical thinking skills as a foundation for active participation in society. USAID contributes to North Macedonia’s efforts to empower citizens and youth to take an active role and have a voice in the country’s development.
ACTIVITY DESCRIPTION
This activity enables citizens and youth to distinguish high-quality, fact-based information from that which is biased, poorly researched, false, or malign. Components integrate critical information engagement and media literacy competencies into primary and secondary school curricula and higher education institutions, including pre- and in-service teacher training institutions and journalism schools. To support media literacy and critical thinking through non-formal education, the program works with a network of youth clubs to provide peer-to-peer training, online courses, and blended learning opportunities. Activities provide youth opportunities to practice these new skills and use information to form, present, and defend positions on issues of concern to them through constructive participation in decision-making processes. Further, the activity enhances the quality, quantity, and relevance of media information targeting youth by strengthening training offered to journalists, both through the country’s journalism schools and by honing the skills of young practicing journalists.
EXPECTED OUTCOMES
- Media literacy will be better integrated into formal education.
- Youth will be able to assess the value, authenticity, authority, and intention of the information they encounter.
- Young journalists will provide more relevant and higher quality information targeting youth.