Trilateral EMPOWERED conference in Sarajevo: Inclusion without borders

The Trilateral EMPOWERED Conference was held in Sarajevo, bringing together representatives of ministries, local governments, civil society organizations, and the private sector from Bosnia and Herzegovina, Serbia, Montenegro, and other Western Balkan countries.

The event was part of the regional project EMPOWERED – Inclusion of Persons with Disabilities, Regional Cooperation and Development in the Western Balkans, implemented by Arbeiter-Samariter-Bund (ASB) and partner organizations from across the region.

The conference opened an important dialogue on employment policies, inclusion, and local solutions that foster greater participation of persons with disabilities in both social and economic life. Through open discussion and exchange of experiences, participants explored ways to strengthen cooperation, improve institutional frameworks, and develop inclusive practices that ensure equal opportunities for all.

Three panel discussions highlighted key regional perspectives:

🔹 Regional cooperation and systemic change – exploring how institutions and organizations can jointly advocate for sustainable inclusion models across the Western Balkans.
🔹 Employment policies and support for employability – addressing challenges in the labor market and presenting innovative approaches to professional development and workplace adaptation.
🔹 The role of local authorities in creating accessible and empowering communities – showcasing successful practices of municipalities that implement inclusive local policies and create accessible environments for all citizens.

💬 The shared goal of all participants was clear – to build inclusive, supportive, and accessible communities where the voices of persons with disabilities are heard, respected, and actively shape decision-making processes.

The conference reaffirmed the importance of regional solidarity, cross-sector collaboration, and mutual learning in achieving long-term social change.

Our heartfelt thanks to all participants for their valuable contributions, inspiring discussions, and continued belief in our common goal – inclusion without borders.