If not us, who?
Project in frames of Erasmus+ program:
Youth participation activties
24-month youth-led project by 3D Friends focused on strengthening youth NGOs through research, advocacy, and policy change. By conducting interviews, research, and dialogue with decision-makers, the project addresses key challenges such as financial instability, burnout, and lack of recognition. It brings together youth organizations, marginalized groups, and government representatives to co-create solutions, influence policy, and build a more sustainable and inclusive youth sector.
Youth participation activties
24-month youth-led project by 3D Friends focused on strengthening youth NGOs through research, advocacy, and policy change. By conducting interviews, research, and dialogue with decision-makers, the project addresses key challenges such as financial instability, burnout, and lack of recognition. It brings together youth organizations, marginalized groups, and government representatives to co-create solutions, influence policy, and build a more sustainable and inclusive youth sector.
About 3D Friends
Community hub based in Riga, Latvia
3D Friends is a community hub established in 2020 turning inclusion into real-life practice. We connect communities through art, non-formal education, and accessible events for everyone. Through local and international projects, including Erasmus+, we empower young people and adults, build European partnerships, and create spaces where everyone can participate equally.
“We move from project to project, never knowing what will happen next year.” – Latvian youth NGO board member
Project in Stages
Research & Preparation
We map youth NGOs across Latvia, conduct interviews, and collect real experiences to understand key challenges such as financial instability, burnout, and lack of recognition.
Analysis & Dialogue
We analyse the collected data and bring it into discussions with decision-makers through podcast making and meetings, ensuring youth voices are heard.
Advocacy & Policy Development
Based on research, we want to make a policy proposal and gather public support to push for concrete changes in the youth sector.
NGO Fair & Dissemination
We will organize an NGO Fair connecting youth organizations with government representatives and share results widely to ensure long-term impact and visibility.
Research results
Document in Latvian language
POLITIKAS IETEIKUMI | Jaunatnes organizācijas Latvijā | 2025-2026
dokuments Latviešu valodā
POLITIKAS IETEIKUMI | Jaunatnes organizācijas Latvijā | 2025-2026
dokuments Latviešu valodā
here are findings from poll
- NGO which are 10+ years (LV)
- NGOs which are 10- years (ENG)
- Based on funding source (ENG)
Here are findings from face-to-face interviews with NGOs from Latvia
“We are youth workers, accountants, coordinators, mentors, and emotional support at the same time - while constantly worrying if our organization will survive.“ – Latvian youth NGO board member
Key findings briefly
- Youth NGOs are trapped in an unstable funding systemThe sector relies heavily on short-term public and EU funding, with almost no private income. Organisations cannot plan long-term, and the financial sustainability score shows they do not believe their model is stable.
- Burnout is a structural reality of the sectorYouth NGO work is driven by passion, but sustained by overwork. Small teams, unpaid roles, and constant pressure lead to burnout, especially for leaders who carry multiple responsibilities without stability or support.
- Youth participation in policymaking is inconsistent and often ineffectiveAround 60% of organisations have engaged in policy processes, but mostly as networking opportunities rather than real influence. Participation depends on personal initiative, not a structured system, and often does not lead to concrete change.
- Inclusion is strong in practice, but weakly supportedOrganisations actively work with marginalized groups, but most lack formal inclusion strategies and receive little to no governmental support for this work.
- Recognition does not match real impactYouth NGOs are active and visible locally, but this visibility rarely translates into understanding, trust, or institutional support. Recognition is often symbolic, not practical and does not lead to funding or stronger partnerships
- The sector is strong in motivation — but weakly supported by the systemYouth organisations are skilled, committed, and already delivering civic value. The main barrier is not lack of capacity or ideas, but lack of stable, long-term structural support from institutions.
“Investing in youth is the single most important investment in the future development of our country that can be made“ –Latvian youth NGO board member
Project team
3D Friends co-founders
Anželika brings extensive experience in youth advocacy at multiple levels, ensuring that young voices are heard and valued in every decision.
Karina leads our creative approach and communication, turning ideas into compelling stories that engage and inspire.
Veronika focuses on inclusion, working tirelessly to reach as many young people facing barriers as possible.
Anželika brings extensive experience in youth advocacy at multiple levels, ensuring that young voices are heard and valued in every decision.
Karina leads our creative approach and communication, turning ideas into compelling stories that engage and inspire.
Veronika focuses on inclusion, working tirelessly to reach as many young people facing barriers as possible.
The project “If not us who” was financed with the support of European Commission’s administered in Latvia by the Agency for International Programs for Youth. This publication reflects only the author’s views, and the Commission cannot be held responsible for any use which may be made of the information contained there in.