Democracy, peace, and freedom are never guaranteed—they must be defended and renewed by every generation. At Arendalsuka, Ukraine’s Deputy Minister of Education and Science, Anastasiia Konovalova reminded us that young people in both Ukraine and Norway have a vital role to play in protecting these values.
Democracy, freedom, and peace are values that should never be taken for granted. History has shown us that these ideals can be fragile if they are not actively protected and nurtured. For young people growing up today, it is crucial to understand that democracy is not just a system of government— it is a way of life that requires participation, responsibility, and courage.
This was underlined by Anastasiia Konovalova, Ukraine’s Deputy Minister of Education and Science, during her conversation with the leader of Support to the People of Ukraine, Per-Kaare Holdal, at Arendalsuka in August this year. She emphasized that we must never take democracy for granted, and that youth must be at the center of this effort, both in Ukraine and in Norway. Her words serve as a reminder that democracy is not inherited—it is built and defended by every generation.
In Ukraine, the struggle for freedom and self-determination has become part of daily life. In Norway, democracy may feel secure, but its strength depends on active engagement and the willingness to stand up for its values. By learning from each other, young people in both countries can gain a deeper appreciation of what it means to live in a free society—and what it takes to preserve it.
Involving youth in democratic processes is more than education; it is empowerment. When young people take part in decision-making, whether through youth councils, civic projects, or international cooperation, they develop the skills and commitment necessary to safeguard democracy for the future. Together, Norway and Ukraine can inspire a new generation to defend peace, freedom, and democracy—values that belong to us all.
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