When organizations connect, advocacy becomes stronger across the Western Balkans. 💙🤝🌍
Within the EMPOWERED project, a regional cycle of online trainings dedicated to the basics of communication and the development of advocacy campaigns was successfully implemented across all six Western Balkan countries. More than 60 organizations of persons with disabilities and civil society organizations from across the region participated in the trainings, creating an important space for networking, knowledge exchange, and strengthening regional cooperation in the field of inclusion and equal opportunities for persons with disabilities.
Throughout the trainings, participants explored the essential role of communication in the work of civil society organizations and the importance of building clear, impactful, and people-centered messages. Special focus was placed on identifying target groups, creating effective communication strategies, and understanding how communication can directly support advocacy efforts and contribute to social change. Participants also discussed examples of both good and poor communication practices, learning how strong messaging and visibility can influence public awareness, institutions, and decision-makers.
An important part of the trainings was dedicated to advocacy itself — understanding its purpose, key elements, and practical application within organizations working in the field of disability inclusion. Participants exchanged experiences and discussed challenges organizations face in advocating for the rights and inclusion of persons with disabilities in their local communities.
The trainings were further enriched by inspiring guest contributions from organizations such as Naša Kuća, Association of Citizens “Tračak nade” Foča, Alfa Centar Nikšić and the Center for Youth Activism KRIK / КРИК, which shared valuable insights from their own advocacy initiatives and campaigns. Through practical examples, participants had the opportunity to hear how advocacy campaigns are developed — from identifying problems and defining campaign objectives to selecting communication channels, creating key messages, and achieving concrete results within communities. The guest speakers also openly discussed challenges they encountered throughout their campaigns, as well as lessons learned and recommendations for future advocacy actions.
A particularly important segment of the trainings focused on the collaborative development of the first frameworks for national advocacy campaigns dedicated to the employment of persons with disabilities. Working together, participants identified key barriers in employment, discussed public perceptions and discrimination, and began shaping campaign messages and ideas aimed at creating more opportunities and reducing exclusion in the labor market. These future campaigns will be implemented across the region and will represent a joint regional effort to strengthen inclusion, visibility, and equal access to employment for persons with disabilities.
The atmosphere of solidarity, openness, and cooperation throughout the trainings once again demonstrated the importance of regional networking and mutual support among organizations across the Western Balkans. Beyond gaining new knowledge and practical tools, participants created stronger connections that will contribute to future joint initiatives, advocacy efforts, and regional cooperation within the EMPOWERED network.
Together, we continue building stronger regional cooperation and amplifying the voices of persons with disabilities across the Western Balkans.