CDI Macedonia and Valandovo partner for inclusion through the Empowered WB project
The Empowered – Inclusion of Persons with Disabilities in the Western Balkans project continues to grow in North Macedonia. Today, CDI Macedonia (Center for Development and Initiatives – ИРЗ Македонија), one of the national partners in the project, signed a partnership agreement with the Municipality of Valandovo, marking a significant step toward advancing the inclusion of persons with disabilities at the local level. This partnership is part of a broader regional initiative aimed at strengthening the social and economic position of people with disabilities by supporting their organizations and promoting their active participation in community life. Project Highlights in Valandovo: This agreement lays the foundation for meaningful, cross-sector cooperation in Valandovo and reflects a shared commitment to building a more inclusive society where people with disabilities are recognized as equal participants in social and economic life. With the experience of CDI Macedonia in inclusive development and institutional cooperation, the implementation of Empowered WB in Valandovo promises measurable impact and long-term benefits for the local community.
LIR CD and Travnik join forces for inclusion through the Empowered WB project
As part of the Empowered – Inclusion of Persons with Disabilities in the Western Balkans project, the collaboration between civil society and local institutions in Bosnia and Herzegovina continues to grow. Representatives of LIR Civil Society Development (LIR CD) and ASB South East Europe met with the Mayor of Travnik, Mr. Kenan Dautović, to officially sign a Partnership Agreement for the joint implementation of project activities in the municipality. This agreement marks an important step toward ensuring greater inclusion, accessibility, and equal opportunities for persons with disabilities (PwDs) at the local level. The meeting was highly constructive, resulting in concrete agreements on future activities and a shared vision for inclusive development in Travnik. About LIR CD LIR CD (Civil Society Development) is a respected organization with over two decades of experience in implementing development projects throughout Bosnia and Herzegovina. Based in Banja Luka, LIR CD is known for its work in the areas of: As the national partner for Bosnia and Herzegovina in the Empowered WB project, LIR CD brings valuable expertise and a deep understanding of local challenges and opportunities related to inclusion and employment. Key points from the meeting: Travnik now joins a growing number of municipalities across the Western Balkans that are actively contributing to the regional vision of a more inclusive society. With the strong commitment of local authorities and civil society acto rs like LIR CD, the project is well-positioned to bring long-lasting positive change to communities.Together, we are building inclusive systems that empower everyone to participate equally — locally and across borders.
New partnership in Montenegro: Municipality of Pljevlja Joins the Empowered WB Project
The Empowered – Inclusion of Persons with Disabilities in the Western Balkans project has marked another important milestone in Montenegro! Alfa Centar Nikšić, the national project partner, proudly signed a cooperation agreement with the Municipality of Pljevlja, further expanding the project’s reach and local engagement. This partnership was formalized during an initial meeting with Mr. Darijo Vraneš, President of the Municipality of Pljevlja, and Mr. Vojin Striković, Advisor to the President of the Municipality of Nikšić. The meeting reflected strong institutional support and readiness to improve conditions for persons with disabilities (PwDs) in local communities. The inclusion of Nikšić and Pljevlja in this €3.3 million regional initiative is a significant step toward strengthening social inclusion and employability for PwDs throughout the Western Balkans. With this agreement now signed, the foundation is set for the successful implementation of activities that will bring tangible results and long-term impact. This cooperation not only enhances local capacities but also reinforces the shared vision of empowered, inclusive communities across the region.
Leskovac joins regional efforts for inclusion: New partnership signed
The City of Leskovac and Initiative for Development and Cooperation (IDC), the national partner for Serbia officially signed a partnership agreement as part of the Empowered – Inclusion of Persons with Disabilities in the Western Balkans project, reinforcing their commitment to a more inclusive and equitable society. Through this regional initiative, Leskovac becomes an active contributor to improving the rights, employability, and social inclusion of persons with disabilities (PwDs). The project, implemented in cooperation with ASB South East Europe and funded by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), delivers targeted support to local communities and strengthens cross-border cooperation. Key Support Measures in Leskovac: €103,400 in direct support for persons with disabilities €70,000 allocated for two local inclusive projects, aimed at improving services and equipment for 150 PwDs €17,000 invested in training and employment programs for at least 20 PwDs The City of Leskovac is also a co-financer of this initiative, contributing €37,000 toward inclusive development and stronger community support structures. This collaboration builds on years of successful partnership between Leskovac, ASB SEE, and IDC Serbia, previously focused on supporting Roma families, domestic violence survivors, and other vulnerable groups. Now, through Empowered, these efforts continue to evolve, bringing meaningful change and long-term impact. Together, we are creating a more inclusive and empowered Leskovac — one that leaves no one behind.
Strengthening systems and building trust for lasting change in the Western Balkans
The partners of the Empowered WB project have joined forces to strengthen systems and mechanisms that promote and protect the rights of persons with disabilities (PwDs), improve their economic empowerment, and expand their access to essential services within their communities. By working collaboratively through joint regional initiatives, the project partners are committed to reinforcing social services, enhancing inclusive education, and improving employment opportunities for PwDs. These efforts aim to remove barriers and create fairer, more accessible environments that enable persons with disabilities to participate fully and equally in society. In practical terms, this includes the development of new tools for inclusive policymaking, training for local authorities and service providers, and the promotion of models that successfully connect persons with disabilities with the labor market. Attention will also be given to bridging the gap between urban and rural areas, ensuring that inclusion reaches even the most underserved communities. 🎯 In the upcoming period, the partners will also focus on deepening mutual trust and cooperation, not only between institutions and organizations but also with the disability community itself. This trust-building is essential for the long-term sustainability of project outcomes and for developing policies that are truly reflective of the needs and rights of PwDs. The Empowered project stands as a regional platform for capacity building and policy improvement, supporting stakeholders at local, national, and regional levels to work together toward common goals. ⏩️⏩️ Through integrated actions, cross-sector collaboration, and shared learning, Empowered promotes inclusive development as a core value, not a side goal. Every activity is guided by the principle that no one should be left behind. 🌍 As the project continues to grow and reach new communities, it offers a unique opportunity to transform how inclusion is understood and practiced throughout the Western Balkans. Together, we are not only building stronger systems — we are building a more inclusive future for all.
From commitment to action: bridging the gap between legislation and implementation for persons with disabilities in the Western Balkans
All countries of the Western Balkans have ratified the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UN CRPD), committing to uphold the principles of dignity, equality, non-discrimination, accessibility, and full participation of persons with disabilities (PwDs) in society. 📜 Over the past decade, these countries have taken important steps to align national legislation with international standards. Laws have been adopted or amended to guarantee rights to education, employment, healthcare, and independent living for PwDs. Serbia, for example, adopted the law on the prevention of discrimination against persons with disabilities as early as 2006, and North Macedonia integrated disability rights in its anti-discrimination legislation in 2020. Similar progress has been made in Montenegro, Albania, Kosovo, and Bosnia and Herzegovina. ❗However, despite these formal commitments, implementation remains uneven and often symbolic, with real-life improvements for PwDs still limited in scope and depth. According to the European Commission’s 2023 progress reports, challenges include: A 2022 regional assessment by the European Disability Forum (EDF) revealed that more than 70% of PwDs in the Western Balkans remain unemployed, with significant barriers to access in both public and private sectors. In addition, less than 50% of public buildings across the region are fully accessible, while inclusive education remains more of an exception than a rule. 🔍 These persistent gaps between policy and practice underscore the urgent need for systemic reform, institutional capacity building, and inclusive implementation strategies. Through the Empowered WB project, we aim to support this transition from legislative alignment to practical, inclusive implementation. Our goal is to:▶️ promote policy harmonization across the region, focusing on good practices that are adaptable and sustainable▶️ strengthen the capacities of local authorities, civil society organizations, and service providers to implement inclusive measures▶️ facilitate regional cooperation and peer learning, enabling stakeholders to overcome common challenges▶️ focus on employment and economic inclusion as key entry points for full participation of PwDs▶️ ensure that PwDs and their representative organizations are at the center of the process — from planning to evaluation 📌 By building stronger mechanisms for accountability, resource allocation, and community-based support, Empowered will help translate legal commitments into concrete improvements in the daily lives of over 20,000 persons with disabilities in the region. True inclusion cannot be achieved through legislation alone — it requires political will, operational coordination, and meaningful engagement at every level of society.
Building bridges for inclusion: New PPC Guide and local plans on the way through the Empowered project
In the coming months, the Empowered project will take a major step forward by developing a comprehensive Public-Private-Civil (PPC) Partnership Guide—a strategic and practical tool designed to foster effective collaboration between governments, businesses, and civil society actors. ✏️ This guide will serve as a key resource for stakeholders at the local level, including the 6️⃣ partner organizations involved in the project across the Western Balkans. It will offer actionable strategies, real-world examples, and adaptable frameworks that support inclusion efforts for persons with disabilities (PwDs). 📍 As part of the development process, bilateral workshops will be organized to facilitate knowledge exchange, share best practices, and address day-to-day challenges faced by local actors. These workshops will help strengthen the ability of partners to coordinate efforts, develop trust, and build systems that truly work for everyone. 💡 Alongside the guide, each participating municipality will also design and implement Local Inclusion Plans and Projects, tailored to their community’s specific needs. These plans will provide sustainable, community-based solutions that improve access, services, and opportunities for more than 20,000 persons with disabilities across the region. 🎯 The combined impact of the PPC Guide, workshops, and local action plans will be far-reaching. Not only will they help build long-term local capacity for inclusion, but they will also contribute to broader, region-wide progress in the area of disability rights, equal participation, and social innovation. ✅ Empowered is about turning dialogue into action—and action into impact. By empowering municipalities, civil society, and private sector actors to work together in new ways, we are setting the stage for lasting, inclusive change.
Strengthening local partnerships: Empowered project expands to the Municipality of Travnik
✍️ As part of the ongoing efforts within the Empowered WB project, we are proud to continue our collaboration in the municipality of Travnik, Bosnia and Herzegovina. This step highlights our commitment to fostering inclusive communities through strong and lasting partnerships at the local level. 🤝 On Wednesday, November 13, representatives of LIR CD and ASB South East Europe met with the mayor of Travnik, Mr. Kenan Dautović, to formalize the partnership by signing a partnership agreement for the joint implementation of the project. The meeting also served as an opportunity to discuss future activities and agree on key priorities in the local context. 📌🎯 The meeting was highly constructive and forward-looking, emphasizing a mutual vision of inclusion, cooperation, and social responsibility. Mayor Dautović expressed his full support for the project and highlighted the municipality’s openness to working across all sectors to improve the lives of persons with disabilities. ➡️➡️ Specific activities were outlined, focusing on improving accessibility, enhancing local services, and ensuring that persons with disabilities in Travnik are not only supported but also empowered to participate fully in community life. These activities will be designed and implemented through collaboration between the municipal government, civil society, and representatives of persons with disabilities themselves. This partnership demonstrates the importance of local leadership and ownership in achieving lasting and meaningful inclusion. By taking concrete actions and working hand in hand with communities, Empowered aims to bridge the gap between policy and practice. 🌍 The work in Travnik will serve as a model for other local governments across the Western Balkans, showcasing how inclusive development begins at the local level. We are excited to move forward with this partnership and look forward to sharing the journey and successes ahead.
First steps toward inclusion: Empowered project kicks off in Bosnia and Herzegovina
📍 The first activities within the Empowered WB project have officially started, marking an important step forward in promoting the inclusion of persons with disabilities at the local level in Bosnia and Herzegovina. ▶️ As part of this regional initiative, collaboration has been established with three municipalities in Bosnia and Herzegovina, including the municipality of Foča, which is now actively joining the Empowered network. This cooperation is a key element in ensuring that inclusion policies are implemented where they matter most – in the local communities. ✅ On Wednesday, November 6th, representatives of LIR CD and ASB South East Europe met with the mayor of Foča, Mr. Milan Vukadinović, to formally sign a Partnership Agreement. This agreement confirms the shared commitment to jointly implement the Empowered project and to cooperate closely on activities that will enhance the quality of life for persons with disabilities. 🤝 The meeting was held in a positive and constructive atmosphere, with open dialogue and a strong sense of mutual trust. Smiles from all participants reflected the enthusiasm and readiness to build a meaningful and productive partnership. This collaboration represents a concrete step toward local ownership, community development, and the creation of more inclusive services and spaces. By working together from the very beginning, we are laying the foundation for sustainable change that responds to the real needs of persons with disabilities. 📌 In the coming months, Foča and the other municipalities will participate in workshops, consultations, and awareness-raising campaigns, all tailored to strengthen institutional capacity and community support. We are excited to move forward and are confident that this is just the beginning of a successful journey.🌍 Together, we will create a more inclusive Western Balkans—starting from the local level, with strong partnerships and shared goals.
Breaking barriers: Tackling root causes of exclusion for persons with disabilities in the Western Balkans
The inclusion of persons with disabilities (PwDs) across the Western Balkans continues to face a number of deeply rooted and systemic challenges, which affect every aspect of daily life and access to equal opportunities. These obstacles include:🔸 societal stigma and discrimination🔹 limited awareness and weak advocacy structures🔸 a lack of inclusive local strategies and implementation plans🔹 gaps between legislation and actual policy implementation🔸 insufficient funding and resources, especially at the local level🔹 lack of physical and digital accessibility🔸 inadequate educational and vocational training options🔹 persistent employment challenges and exclusion from the labor market ➡️ Within the framework of the Empowered project, these critical barriers will be directly addressed through targeted activities, strategic partnerships, and inclusive dialogue. Our aim is to build a society where no one is left behind, where inclusion is not just a policy goal but a lived reality for all. The project will promote the creation of inclusive local action plans, ensure active involvement of people with disabilities in decision-making, and support civil society in holding institutions accountable. Efforts will also be made to bridge the policy-to-practice gap, with a strong focus on improving access to public services, information, education, and employment for PwDs. Training sessions, awareness campaigns, and consultations will be tailored to involve local governments, institutions, employers, and communities. We believe that lasting change can only happen through long-term commitment, multi-sector collaboration, and direct engagement with persons with disabilities and their representative organizations. 📌 Empowered will implement comprehensive and sustainable measures that aim to transform not only policies, but mindsets—creating communities where persons with disabilities can live with dignity, independence, and equal opportunities. By strengthening community capacities and amplifying the voices of PwDs, this project will help turn challenges into actions and obstacles into opportunities for inclusive development.