LIBURNETIK launches Re-Debate IX: the National Debate Championship, a long-standing tradition that empowers Albanian youth

After eight successful editions, Re-Debate, the National Debate Championship, officially opens its 9th edition, establishing itself as a sustainable national platform for the development of critical thinking, logical argumentation, and active citizenship among Albanian youth. This edition is financially supported by the National Youth Agency (AKR), the Minister of State for Youth and Children, and the National Agency for Civil Society (AMSHC), as a direct investment in empowering the country’s next generation.

The 9th edition of Re-Debate will kick off in October 2025, engaging 38 high schools across 15 municipalities of Albania. This wide geographical representation underscores the significance of the championship in its inclusive outreach, bringing together young people from both major cities and rural areas in a competition of ideas and visions that reflect the realities of Albanian youth.

Re-Debate has now become an alternative school of civic education, where young people learn to debate on issues that impact society, democracy, economic development, the environment, and human rights. Through structured matches and dedicated training sessions, students gain the skills to analyze information, build fact-based arguments, and communicate with respect and integrity.

At a time when climate change, environmental pollution, and the management of natural resources stand as global challenges, Re-Debate IX places a strong emphasis on raising youth awareness of issues related to the environment, green energy, recycling, and sustainable development. Through the debate topics, participants will engage in discussions on:

• the protection of biodiversity and natural resources
• energjitë e rinovueshme dhe tranzicionin energjetik,
• the reduction of urban pollution and waste management
• the ‘Green Deal’ policy and European integration
• the role of young citizens in building a greener Albania

This new orientation gives the 9th edition not only an educational, but also a mission-driven dimension, helping young people become active agents for a cleaner and more sustainable future.

The format provides participants not only with academic preparation, but also with essential life skills that serve their employability and active participation in society.

The championship process will begin with preparatory phases and training sessions to be held in October, followed by the elimination rounds at the municipal and regional levels. The culmination of the championship will be the national final — a major public event where the best teams from across the country compete. Traditionally attended by representatives of institutions, civil society, and the educational community, the final serves as a moment of reflection and inspiration for all participants.

Thanks to the funding and support of the National Youth Agency (AKR), the Minister of State for Youth and Children, and the National Agency for Civil Society (AMSHC), Re-Debate IX reaffirms the importance that the Albanian state places on youth empowerment as a cornerstone for democratic and social development. This cooperation demonstrates that investing in young people is not only a moral commitment, but also a concrete strategy for building a more sustainable and inclusive future for the country.

Over the past eight editions, Re-Debate has trained thousands of young people, creating a nationwide network of students and teachers dedicated to the culture of debate.

The 9th edition marks the next step in this consolidated tradition, aiming not only to organize a national championship, but also to nurture a new generation of critical thinkers, active citizens, and future leaders.