Kochanova comments on effective work with youth

“Modern society, and young people in the first place, lacks human connection. We understand that there should be no formalism here. This is what young people cannot stand. If you approach any meeting or event formally, just to tick a box, and even use administrative leverage to drag young people there – it will only cause rejection,” Natalya Kochanova said. “Young people are the most receptive audience. They genuinely ask questions that concern them. Sometimes they simply misunderstand what they have read, for instance, on the internet. And here, we must find the time, try to meet and talk, and convey truthful information to that young person. Young people are very sensitive to lies. They always respond with great enthusiasm to openness and sincerity from a person. Young people will gravitate towards those public associations and organizations where they feel an informal approach and genuine interest.”

According to Natalya Kochanova, work with youth should be conducted on a constant basis, not just occasionally for events. “Regardless of our own time, we must meet even with a small group of young people and convey to them everything our country is living through today, our achievements, what we are doing. And also to find out from them what questions and problems they have, to hear from them what concerns them. This is the daily work of any leader. The head of an organization or educational institution must personally deal with these issues to avoid unpleasant situations later,” Natalya Kochanova added. “Personal communication is key. We must go to youth audiences and talk with them. Explain what is being done to preserve peace and stability, to ensure such a prosperous life. Therefore, a formal approach is unacceptable here.”

“These young people today, our youth, support the policy being pursued in our country. And if you feel there is some problem, then you need to reach absolutely every single person and sort it out,” Natalya Kochanova added.


The chairwoman of the Council of the Republic also touched upon the issue of employment for young specialists. “It is unacceptable when, after receiving higher education at some institutions, less than 50% of graduates are employed. Today, there are plenty of job vacancies in the country, and the job placement rate should be 100%. It doesn’t matter which educational institution it is, but the young people must be placed. If there is a demand for personnel in the country, then we must talk with enterprise managers in advance and find a solution,” she said.

Currently, over 50 laws regulating the state’s youth policy are in effect in the country. “Serious work is being done; a separate article dedicated to youth is enshrined in the Constitution. Over 50 laws regulate the activities of youth organizations and youth work in the country in general. We have a huge number of specialists who are directly engaged in this work,” emphasized Natalya Kochanova. “The Council of the Republic was the initiator of several youth projects, such as the Memory Train. Recently, we held the 10th International Cultural and Educational Forum Children of the Commonwealth for the first time. It was attended by young people from different countries of the former Soviet Union – they have the same questions, the same topics for discussion, they are ready to be friends, cooperate, and interact.”