Employment without barriers in Leskovac – open dialogue and concrete steps forward
The open dialogue “Employment Without Barriers” was held in Leskovac within the EMPOWERED project, bringing together representatives of institutions, civil society organisations, and the private sector with a shared goal – improving the position of persons with disabilities in the labour market. Through an open and constructive discussion, participants exchanged experiences and identified key challenges, as well as concrete opportunities for improving employment and strengthening cooperation between stakeholders at both local and national levels. 💬 Activities within the project are already ongoing in Leskovac, including:✔ implementation of local inclusive plans✔ career counselling✔ psychosocial support✔ strengthening capacities of local organisations 🎯 During the event, a public call for the vocational training and labour integration programme for persons with disabilities was also presented. The programme includes:✔ qualification and requalification trainings✔ on-the-job practice✔ support for labour market inclusion 👥 A total of 60 beneficiaries will be supported (Leskovac, Novi Pazar, Dimitrovgrad). 📅 The public call is open until 30 April 2026, and applications are submitted at the City Administration of Leskovac. 🌐 More information: https://empowered-wb.org/2026/04/01/idc-open-call-for-participation-in-the-vocational-training-and-labour-inclusion-programme-for-persons-with-disabilities/ The event was organised by Initiative for development and cooperation (IDC) and Forum of Youth with Disabilities FMI, with the support of Arbeiter-Samariter-Bund and the City of Leskovac, within a project funded by German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development BMZ.
IDC – Open call for participation in the vocational training and labour inclusion programme for persons with disabilities
Within the project EMPOWERED – Inclusion of Persons with Disabilities, Regional Cooperation and Development in the Western Balkans, project partner Initiative for developmenat and cooperation (IDC) has launched public calls for the selection of beneficiaries in three cities in Serbia: Leskovac, Novi Pazar, and Dimitrovgrad. The call is intended for persons with disabilities who wish to improve their skills, acquire new knowledge, and increase their opportunities for employment through a vocational training and labour inclusion programme. The programme includes: A total of 60 beneficiaries will be selected (20 per city). 📅 Application deadline: 1 April – 30 April 2026 📍 Application process: 📄 The application form and detailed information about the call are available through the channels listed above. We invite all interested applicants to apply and take an important step towards greater independence, employment, and active participation in society. Please download the application documentation for the public call:
Speech by Mrs. Tanja Fajon, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign and European Affairs of the Republic of Slovenia, at the EMPOWERED Study Visit Croatia–Slovenia 2026
Mrs. Tanja Fajon, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign and European Affairs of the Republic of Slovenia addressed participants of the EMPOWERED Study Visit Croatia–Slovenia 2026 at the University Rehabilitation Institute Soča in Ljubljana, where she emphasized the importance of regional cooperation, inclusion, and equal opportunities for persons with disabilities. In her inspiring speech, she highlighted the role of joint efforts between institutions, civil society, and international partners in building more inclusive societies, while expressing strong support for initiatives that contribute to the empowerment of the most vulnerable across the Western Balkans. It is a pleasure to have you here with us, and to meet some new faces, as well as some familiar ones, as I have cooperated in the past with many of you in your countries across the Western Balkans. I would especially like to mention Soča. Soča holds a special meaning for me, as my father was here many years ago, and it has left a lasting impression on me. I hope that, for you as well as for us, it represents a foundation of the system for the inclusion of persons with disabilities. I am pleased to welcome you within the framework of the Empowered project, which reflects a shared commitment to strengthening inclusive systems and promoting equal opportunities for persons with disabilities. Your presence here today is a strong signal that inclusion and inclusiveness—at the regional and European levels—are a priority. Slovenia firmly believes that social inclusion and equal access to the labor market are fundamental human rights. Employment provides dignity, independence, and full participation in society. For persons with disabilities, access to decent work is one of the most important paths to empowerment. I speak from personal experience, as my father spent ten years in a wheelchair, and I am aware of how much Slovenia has achieved over the past twenty years in improving the position of persons with disabilities—while still recognizing that there is room for further progress. I am also pleased to join today an initiative that speaks about the foundations of dignity, solidarity in our society, and ultimately about the core values of the European Union. Given the importance of regional cooperation and the protection of human rights, I welcome this ASB initiative within the Empowered project, funded by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development. This program is a key and excellent example of concrete measures that promote the inclusion of persons with disabilities. Today, we also reaffirm our shared commitment to ensuring that persons with disabilities are fully included in social, economic, and civic life, and to strengthening cooperation across the Western Balkans so that this commitment becomes a reality. I am proud that Slovenian development cooperation in the Western Balkans focuses on empowering the most vulnerable groups. For example, Slovenia has been supporting demining efforts in Bosnia and Herzegovina for decades. We provide concrete assistance to mine victims, including not only physical and psychosocial rehabilitation, but also socio-economic reintegration—through restoring their livelihoods, particularly in agriculture, and facilitating their inclusion in the community. It is equally important to recognize that inclusion requires a comprehensive approach. During this visit, you have already become familiar, and will continue to learn about, a wide range of services that together form the backbone of sustainable inclusion. Through the project “United Against Domestic Violence,” funded by the Intesa Foundation, you are also supporting another crucial issue—protecting victims, strengthening shelters in Serbia, and ensuring safety and support. During your study visit in Slovenia, participants are learning about best practices in victim protection through cooperation with relevant organizations. You are exploring how shelters are organized and managed, how victims are empowered through educational programs, and identifying practical approaches that can be adapted in your home countries to further strengthen support services. I also welcome concrete cooperation with the private sector, as partnerships like these provide essential resources and contribute to strengthening regional cooperation and progress toward European standards in the protection of victims of violence. In conclusion, I would also like to express my gratitude to the ASB organization for its continuous regional presence. The work of this organization encourages inclusion and the protection of the most vulnerable, and we are stronger when we act together — when governments, civil society, international partners, and private companies truly align their efforts towards common goals. Finally, once again, you are most welcome to Slovenia. I hope you will leave with positive impressions, enriched with valuable experiences, and that we will continue to strengthen our cooperation in the future. There are many people in our societies who are among the most vulnerable and who truly need our support. Therefore, thank you for your care, your commitment, and your dedication — because it is this compassion that people need the most, both in difficult times and beyond.
EMPOWERED Study Visit Croatia–Slovenia 2026: Learning from practice, strengthening Inclusion
The EMPOWERED Study Visit Croatia–Slovenia 2026 brought together representatives of ministries, local governments, civil society organizations, and the private sector from across the Western Balkans, creating a valuable platform for knowledge exchange and strengthening regional cooperation in the field of inclusion of persons with disabilities. During the visit, participants explored a wide range of services and support systems in Croatia and Slovenia, combining site visits with expert presentations and discussions. A visit to the City Hall of Sveti Ivan Zelina provided insight into local policies and approaches to inclusion, followed by a visit to the Association “Srce”, where participants learned more about community-based services, supported housing, and daily support programs. Through presentations and open discussions, participants had the opportunity to better understand how these services function in practice and how they can be adapted in their own environments. In Slovenia, the study visit continued with visits to key institutions and organizations, including the Želva and the University Rehabilitation Institute Soča, where participants were introduced to inclusive employment models, professional rehabilitation services, and the role of social enterprises in creating job opportunities for persons with disabilities. Each visit was accompanied by presentations and direct exchanges with professionals, enabling a deeper understanding of the systems in place. The overall evaluation of the study visit was very high, with an average score of 4.88, reflecting the relevance and quality of the program. A particular value of the study visit was the opportunity for dialogue and exchange among participants. Representatives from all Western Balkan countries shared their experiences, challenges, and perspectives, while engaging with colleagues from Croatia and Slovenia. These discussions opened space for comparing legislative frameworks, institutional approaches, and practical solutions, as well as identifying opportunities for future cooperation. A highlight of the visit was the address by Tanja Fajon, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign and European Affairs of the Republic of Slovenia, at the University Rehabilitation Institute Soča. In her speech, she expressed strong and unequivocal support for ASB’s work in the Western Balkans, recognizing it as a key driver of inclusive development and regional cooperation. She emphasized that inclusion is “not only a policy objective, but a fundamental human right,” and underlined the importance of initiatives such as EMPOWERED in bringing concrete change to the lives of persons with disabilities. Highlighting the impact of ASB’s presence in the region, she stressed that “we are stronger when we act together — when governments, civil society, international partners, and the private sector align their efforts towards common goals,” pointing to the EMPOWERED project as a powerful example of such collaboration in action. She also reaffirmed Slovenia’s continued commitment to supporting efforts that advance inclusion, equal opportunities, and dignity for all. The study visit once again confirmed the importance of practical learning and direct exchange. By connecting stakeholders from different sectors and countries, the EMPOWERED project continues to contribute to building more inclusive systems and advancing equal opportunities for persons with disabilities across the Western Balkans. Organized by project partner LIR CD with the support of ASB South East Europe, and implemented in cooperation with project partners Initiative for development and cooperation (IDC), Alfa Centar Nikšić, Albanian Disability Rights Foundation (ADRF), PREDA Plus Foundation and CDI Macedonia, the EMPOWERED project, funded by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), represents a strong example of how regional cooperation can lead to meaningful and sustainable change.
Focus groups held in Leskovac and Dimitrovgrad
As part of the Empowered – Strengthened project, focus groups were successfully held in Leskovac and Dimitrovgrad, organized by the Forum of Youth with Disabilities (FMI) and the partner organization IDC – Initiative for Development and Cooperation. The focus groups brought together persons with disabilities who, through open and constructive dialogue, shared their experiences, needs, and suggestions. The aim of these activities is to directly collect relevant insights from beneficiaries about the challenges they face in everyday life, particularly in accessing services, education, employment, and participation in the community. These discussions provide an important basis for developing concrete recommendations aimed at improving local policies and practices related to inclusion. The active involvement of persons with disabilities ensures that future measures are better aligned with real needs on the ground. The next focus group is planned in Novi Pazar, where the process of gathering insights and strengthening inclusive approaches at the local level will continue.
Concrete steps forward for inclusion – PREDA PLUS
Inclusion is becoming a reality through strong local partnerships and active community engagement within the Empowered project. Strengthening local cooperation in Istog In the Municipality of Istog, a significant step forward has been made through the official signing of a Memorandum of Cooperation between the Municipality and the PREDA Plus Foundation. The agreement was signed by Mayor Ilir Ferati and the National Coordinator of PREDA Plus in Kosovo, Petrit Bllaca. This partnership lays the foundation for the implementation of jointly co-funded local initiatives aimed at improving the position of persons with disabilities. Planned activities will focus on enhancing the quality and efficiency of physiotherapy services, improving access to specialized educational tools for children with disabilities, and supporting the development of more accessible infrastructure. Defining priorities in Mitrovica At the same time, in Mitrovica, a Focus Group organized by project partner PREDA Plus gathered a diverse group of stakeholders, including professionals from the social, psychological, and educational sectors, as well as representatives of persons with disabilities. The discussion resulted in the identification of key priorities for improving the quality of life of persons with disabilities. These include the improvement of school conditions through the functionalization of resource classrooms, the provision of technical and medical equipment, the installation of audio signaling at traffic lights, and the placement of tactile paving. Additional priorities were also identified and will be further discussed during a public consultation planned for April. A shared commitment to inclusion These activities demonstrate a strong and shared commitment of local institutions and civil society to advance accessibility and inclusion. Continued cooperation and active participation of all stakeholders remain essential to ensuring that identified priorities are translated into concrete and sustainable improvements for persons with disabilities.
Strengthening Inclusion in Albania — Empowered WB activities in Tirana and Shkodër
Empowered WB activities in Albania are progressing rapidly. In partnership with the Albanian Disability Rights Foundation (ADRF), a series of project actions has been carried out to support the development of more inclusive communities in Tirana and Shkodër. Through consultations, focus groups, and targeted trainings, we are strengthening local actors — municipal representatives, civil society organizations, and service providers. At the same time, we work with families of persons with disabilities to increase their capacities, awareness, and opportunities for active participation in local policies and services. Local projects are being developed to produce concrete changes on the ground and improve service accessibility. Next steps include delivering psychosocial workshops for families and beneficiaries, and implementing local inclusive projects that will enhance the everyday lives of persons with disabilities. These activities foster collaboration among all relevant stakeholders and contribute to building sustainable, inclusive solutions. We thank ADRF for their dedication and partnership — we look forward to continued cooperation and visible results for the communities in Tirana and Shkodër.
Tender ref.no.: BOS2404_CDI/SER T 03/RE-TENDER
PROVISION OF COMPREHENSIVE SERVICES FOR EXPERT CONSULTANCY 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 13.03.2026 the organization Community Development Institute 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_CDI/SER T 03/RE-TENDER, 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 the company’s memo to request the tender documentation to the e-mail info@cdi.mk. The deadline for submitting offers is April 2nd, 2026, at 12:00 hours.
EMPOWERED activities in North Macedonia — meetings in Valandovo and Demir Kapija
CDI Macedonia — ИРЗ Македонија held productive meetings in the municipalities of Valandovo and Demir Kapija as part of preparations for the EMPOWERED programme. In Valandovo, meetings were held with Mayor Gjoko Kamčev and Anita Trajkova to discuss local priorities, coordination and support mechanisms. In Demir Kapija, a meeting was held with Blagoj Jovanovski, coordinator of the working group, to align on timelines, stakeholder engagement and practical steps for project implementation. These consultations bring us closer to rolling out EMPOWERED activities in North Macedonia. Participants agreed on preparations for upcoming study visits, defined the working group’s responsibilities, and outlined next steps for developing and implementing local projects that will strengthen services and community support. We thank the municipal authorities for their support and constructive cooperation and look forward to continuing our joint work to deliver tangible results for local communities.
Tender Reference No.: BOS2404-PP-S05
T Invitation to Tender: Support with equipment and tools for speech therapists, physiotherapy and IT for the Source Class at Primary Lower Secondary School “Bajram Curri”, HandiKos and Association of Blind- Istog PREDA Plus hereby announces the launch of the tender for a “Support with equipment and tools for speech therapists, physiotherapy and IT for the Source Class at Primary Lower Secondary School “Bajram Curri”, HandiKos and Association of Blind- Istog”, under reference number BOS2404-PP-S05. This tender is issued as part of the project “EMPOWERED – Inclusion of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs), Regional Cooperation, and Development in the Western Balkans”, funded by the Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development, Germany (BMZ). Interested bidders are invited to submit their requests for tender documentation on official company letterhead between 13 – 26 March, 2026, by sending an email to: info-kosovo@predaplus.eu The deadline for submission of bids is April 14, 2026, at 15:00.