World Services program has far reaching impact

May 6, 2008

Young people in the city of Seversk, Russia, are learning to speak with one voice—and they are being heard. A pilot project to engage youth ages 10-17 in the democratic process was met with enthusiasm in this Siberian city located on the right bank of the Tom River. The project was made possible by Russians who are alumni of the Open World Program, a program authorized by Congress and administered by the Library of Congress. World Services, La Crosse, Wis., was the organization responsible for arranging the visits of the Russians to various cities in the U.S.

Julia Michaleva, an Open World alumnus and director of the program in Seversk, said that after observing the election processes used in the United States, it became clear to her that an educational program would help young people in Russia understand the voting process and encourage participation.

The first phase of the project took place in October of 2007 with 5,000 students, about 75 percent of all students in this city of 109,000 residents, taking part. The students formed three political parties and learned how to analyze the platforms of each.

In January of 2008, students had the opportunity to run for election to a parliament, or Youth Duma. All interested candidates were required to get at least 100 signatures in support of their candidacies, and to develop a platform on which to run. The candidates were also given the opportunity to present their platforms on city radio. Student voters were instructed to analyze the positions of the candidates before voting. and then elected15 candidates to the Youth Duma.

The last phase of the project was completed in March of 2008. Members of the Youth Duma discussed a number of issues that concerned them, and chose three to present to the City Administration. Their concerns were taken seriously, and the City Administration approved all three.

The first request was for a school bus program. The students wanted their own transportation system, citing a lack of courtesy on public buses and objectionable odor from alcohol and cigarettes. The students also asked that citizens be educated on proper behavior on city buses.

The students also asked for access to media so that they could work to promote a positive image on youth and promote youth activities. A youth newspaper and monthly magazine with a youth focus was created. The group also asked for a youth recreation center. That project is being developed by the Youth Duma and City Administration.

This is just one example of how an exchange program can have far-reaching consequences. Using their experiences in the United States as a guide, Open World alumni return to Russia with new ideas to bring about change and involve people in the process. At the same time, they are developing young people into future leaders.