Democracy is only as strong as its citizens’ participation. The Centre’s programme aims to empower citizens, young and old alike, to engage in the democratic process beyond elections. Through bottom-up activities, citizens learn that our daily actions, thoughts and views will determine the success of democracy.
Recognising the challenges of “training” people to be democratic, BCMD focuses on inspiring and enabling people to be more participatory and engaged in their communities, thus contributing to a more democratic society. Programme activities aim to strengthen civic engagement and encourage citizens to participate in and contribute to the improvement of their community and neighbourhood.
Outcomes
- Enhanced understanding of the roles of active citizens, media and the importance of informed decision-making in a democracy
- Strengthened the growth of youth leadership, action and voice in democracy
Activities
Youth Summit
An annual youth programme to take school-bound children through reflection, self-discovery and learning to act at an individual level on socio-political issues to bring about change in their communities.
Youth Initiative
A year-long programme that teaches youth to investigate issues, review policy, and practise debate, deliberation and dialogue. It aims to motivate youth to become proactive citizens for positive change.
Community Building Initiative
An asset-based community-building approach that inspires, deepens and empowers youth as agents of change, with the skills of investigating issues and mobilising local resources. It models inclusive citizen participation and action in addressing community issues.
Educating for Citizenship & Media Literacy
An ongoing programme to enable and prepare youth, teachers, communities and special needs populations to make informed decisions, think critically, and verify and evaluate information and news in an information-driven age.
Strengthening Civil Society
Promotes the expansion of civic space through leadership and advocacy capacity development, and support to the CSOs’ core coordinating committee.
