Building inclusive communities begins with listening, cooperation, and concrete action focused on the real needs of persons with disabilities. 💙
Within the EMPOWERED project, CDI Macedonia – ИРЗ Македонија organized a working meeting in cooperation with representatives of the Municipality of Valandovo, members of the local working group, service providers, and other relevant stakeholders with the aim of identifying key challenges faced by persons with disabilities in the local community and developing practical solutions for greater inclusion and accessibility.
The meeting created an important space for dialogue and joint planning, allowing participants to openly discuss existing barriers, current needs, and opportunities for improving support systems and services for persons with disabilities. Through collaborative work and exchange of experiences, participants identified concrete priorities that will contribute to the future development of the Local Inclusion Plan in Valandovo.
In addition to defining priority areas for future action, the meeting also resulted in two proposals for future local initiatives focused on improving support, accessibility, and opportunities for persons with disabilities within the municipality. The proposed initiatives aim to strengthen inclusion at the community level and encourage stronger cooperation between local institutions, organizations, and service providers. Through the EMPOWERED project, local partnerships across the Western Balkans continue to play an important role in improving the position and quality of life of persons with disabilities and ensuring equal opportunities for all.