We have launched new resources which aim to improve young people’s understanding of the political process and help policy makers and leaders engage the public in their decisions. The products were launched at the Scottish Parliament at an event hosted by Iain Smith MSP.

The resources are the result of the Political Strand of the British Council’s UK-South East Europe Forum project.

The Political Strand’s aim was to encourage better co-operation between the future political leadership of the United Kingdom and the countries of South East Europe, in the context of the increasing disaffection of national electorates with existing political processes.

Four MSPs took part in the two year long programme . They were:

•Nicola Sturgeon MSP

•Iain Smith MSP  

•Kenny MacAskill MSP

•Richard Baker MSP.

Several other people involved in Scottish politics, such as party workers and campaigners, were also involved.

The resources are:

Politicians at work DVD

This documentary shows how MPs engage with and are held accountable by members of their constituencies.

Booklet for young people

This compares aspects of the parliamentary systems of UK and some South East European countries.

Policy making CDR

This tool aims to develop a better understanding of the consultation process within parties and with civil society.

Tomorrow’s Politicians toolkit

This is a practical skills booklet for emerging leaders in the South East Europe and UK regions with examples of good practice.

Guests at the launch all agreed there were strong links to be built on between Scotland and the South East Europe region. The next phase of the programme is in development and the foundations have been laid for a positive future relationship.

A limited number of resource materials are available. To find out more, or if you would like information on future developments between Scotland and South East Europe, contact Lucy.Young@britishcouncil.org

To find out more about the UK-South East Europe Forum Political Strand, visit the website.

To learn about the British Council’s work in Modernising Government, visit the website.