Laying the foundation for an inclusive future in Travnik
In Travnik, an important meeting took place with the working group from the Municipality of Travnik, the LIR CD project team, project partners, and consultant Mirsada Bajramović. This gathering marked a crucial step in the creation of the Local Action Plan for Inclusion, a strategic initiative that aims to foster a more inclusive, equitable, and sustainable community. The Local Action Plan for Inclusion is part of a broader effort to align local policies with international frameworks that promote social inclusion and equality. This includes adhering to guidelines set by organizations such as the United Nations and the European Union, both of which emphasize the importance of inclusive development and equal opportunities for all citizens, regardless of their background or abilities. During the meeting, participants discussed several key areas: The primary goal of the meeting was to establish a strong, evidence-based foundation for the Local Action Plan, ensuring that it aligns with both local needs and global standards. By adhering to existing legislative frameworks and strategic guidelines, the plan is designed to create an effective and sustainable inclusion process that will benefit all residents of the Municipality of Travnik. At the heart of this project is a commitment to creating lasting solutions that are rooted in international principles of inclusion, equality, and human rights. By integrating these global standards into the local context, the project team aims to ensure that the process of inclusion is not only effective but also sustainable over the long term. As the project progresses, we continue to collaborate closely with local stakeholders, international partners, and experts to develop inclusive solutions that will improve the quality of life for all citizens of Travnik. This project is more than just a local initiative; it is part of a global movement towards building more inclusive societies where everyone, regardless of their circumstances, can thrive. Together, we are building a fairer, more equal, and inclusive society that mirrors international values of solidarity, human dignity, and social justice.
TENDER FOR PROVISION OF COMPREHENSIVE SERVICES FOR EXPERT CONSULTACY AND DEVELOPMENT OF LOCAL STRATEGIC DOCUMENTS
Tender ref.no.: BOS2404_IDC/SER T 04 TENDER FOR PROVISION OF COMPREHENSIVE SERVICES FOR EXPERT CONSULTACY AND DEVELOPMENT OF LOCAL STRATEGIC DOCUMENTS, CAPACITY-BUILDING OF LOCAL STAKEHOLDERS, AND EDUCATIVE SUPPORT TO THE PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES (PwDs) We are informing you that on 25.08.2025 the organization Initiative for Development and Cooperation is opening the procurement for provision of comprehensive services for expert consultacy and development of local strategic documents, capacity-building of local stakeholders, and educative support to the people with disabilities (PwDs), reference number BOS2404_IDC/SER T 04, (divided into three lots), within the project “EMPOWERED – INCLUSION OF PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES (PWDS), REGIONAL COOPERATION AND DEVELOPMENT IN THE WESTERN BALKANS”, funded by the Federal Ministry for Economic Co-operation and Development, Germany (BMZ). All interested bidders may send a request on company’s memo to request the tender documentation to the e-mail zorica.z@idcserbia.org. The deadline for submitting offers is September 25, 2025. at 12:00 hours
Empowered WB in Dimitrovgrad – Strengthening local inclusion
Within the #EmpoweredWB project, the team visited the Municipality of Dimitrovgrad, one of the 15 local governments participating in the initiative. ASB and IDC, with their long-standing cooperation and experience in implementing initiatives that improve the quality of life of citizens and promote social inclusion, will provide strong support to the successful work of the local structures formed through the project. During the meeting with municipal representatives, it was agreed to establish a local working group and ensure its active engagement, with clearly defined mechanisms for its functioning within the project framework. Discussions also focused on local initiatives that the group will define, which will receive support through project activities in the coming period. In addition, concrete next steps and activities were planned to enhance the inclusion of persons with disabilities and to strengthen local capacities for the development of inclusive policies. Through joint efforts, we are creating communities where diversity is valued and everyone has equal opportunities.
Novi Pazar commits to inclusion
As part of the #EmpoweredWB project, a meeting was held with representatives of the local government to discuss the establishment of a working group dedicated to improving the position of persons with disabilities. IDC has been implementing projects in Novi Pazar for many years, aimed at improving the quality of life of beneficiaries and strengthening inclusion, which further contributes to the successful implementation of such initiatives. During a constructive discussion, concrete steps were agreed upon for the formation of the group and ensuring its effective operation. Special emphasis was placed on local initiatives that will emerge from the group’s work and receive support through project activities. The next steps were also defined, focusing on improving local policies and strengthening community capacities towards greater inclusivity. Step by step – together, we are building communities that recognize, value, and respect diversity.
Advancing inclusion in Valandovo
Valandovo is taking important steps toward becoming a more inclusive community – within the framework of the #EmpoweredWB project, which is being implemented in 15 municipalities across the region. With the support of our partner organization CDI Macedonia – ИРЗ Македонија , a productive meeting was held with local authorities to initiate the establishment of a local working group dedicated to the inclusion of persons with disabilities. Key elements of its composition and operational approach were defined. The conversation also focused on future local actions that this group will develop and which will receive support through the project. Clear directions were agreed upon for advancing inclusive local policies and strengthening community-level support systems. Bit by bit – we are shaping environments where diversity is recognized and equal participation is made possible!