The trilateral conference “EMPOWERED – Inclusion of Persons with Disabilities, Regional Cooperation and Development in the Western Balkans” will be held in Sarajevo on October 22, 2025, at the Hotel Hills.
The event will bring together representatives of relevant ministries, local governments, civil society organizations, and the private sector from Bosnia and Herzegovina, Serbia, Montenegro, and other Western Balkan countries.
Organized within the regional project EMPOWERED, implemented by Arbeiter-Samariter-Bund (ASB) in partnership with IDC, CDI, LIR CD, Alfa Centar, PREDA Plus, and ADRF, with the support of the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), the conference will focus on strengthening regional cooperation and exchanging experiences in advancing the rights and employment of persons with disabilities.
Three panel discussions will address key topics:
- Regional cooperation, innovation, and advocacy for systemic change and long-term inclusion,
- Employment policies and support measures for persons with disabilities, and
- Local inclusion policies: how local authorities create accessible and empowering environments.
The conference will feature speakers from ministries, local governments, and organizations from across the region, who will share experiences, examples of good practice, and innovative approaches to creating inclusive and supportive communities.
Through dialogue and exchange, the conference aims to promote solidarity, cooperation, and the development of inclusive systems that ensure equal rights, access to services, and participation for all citizens across the Western Balkans.
