The Public Affairs Section (PAS) sponsors exchanges for emerging and influential voices in politics, democracy, and governance to foster civic leadership, and cross-party cooperation to advance North Macedonias stability, security, and EU accession. Participants, including youth wings of major political parties, political influencers, local officials, political analysts, think-tank representatives, and others, will develop the capacity to address relevant societal issues. The program features periodic bilateral (two-way) exchanges between the USA and North Macedonia and may include peers from neighboring countries like Bulgaria to promote regional stability. Selection of participants will be coordinated with the U.S. Embassy. Topics include democratic governance, policymaking, electoral and judicial systems, local government, elections, freedom of media, and active citizenship. The program aims to build lasting professional relationships and friendships between emerging leaders in North Macedonia and the U.S. and seeks to incorporate a regional component.