Tender Reference No.: BOS2404-LIRCD-WOR-T02
On 9th of June 2026, organization LIR Civil Society hereby announces the launch of a tender for Reconstructionof street sidewalks and installation of accessible ramps for safe mobility of persons with disabilities in Foča,BiH, reference number BOS2404-LIRCD-WOR-T02 within the project “EMPOWERED – Inclusion of personswith disabilities (PWDs), regional cooperation and development in the Western Balkans”, funded by theFederal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development, Germany (BMZ).All interested bidders are invited to submit their request for tender documentation on company’s letterhead,to the e-mail addresses: zoran.basic@lircd.org; maja.katic@lircd.org and ivana.bojinovic@lircd.orgThe deadline for submitting offers in accordance with the tender documentation is 09. 07. 2026, by 12:00.
Open dialogue on social services for persons with disabilities held in Leskovac
An Open dialogue on social services for persons with disabilities was held today in Leskovac, bringing together representatives of local authorities, relevant institutions, organizations of persons with disabilities, social service providers, and other key stakeholders. The event aimed to assess the current state of social services, identify key challenges and needs, and formulate recommendations for improving support systems within the local community. During the dialogue, participants discussed the availability of existing social services, the needs of persons with disabilities and their families, the role of institutions and service providers, and the importance of cross-sector cooperation in creating sustainable and inclusive solutions. Special attention was given to sharing practical experiences and identifying concrete opportunities for developing new services that respond to the needs of the community. The Open Dialogue is one of the activities aimed at strengthening local capacities for the inclusion of persons with disabilities and improving their position through the active involvement of all relevant stakeholders. The conclusions and recommendations gathered during the discussion will serve as a basis for future advocacy efforts and the development of local policies that promote greater accessibility, equality, and social inclusion. The event was organized by the Initiative for Development and Cooperation (IDC) with the support of Arbeiter-Samariter-Bund (ASB), within the project “EMPOWERED – Inclusion of Persons with Disabilities, Regional Cooperation and Development in the Western Balkans.” The project is funded by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) and is implemented across six Western Balkan countries with the goal of advancing the rights, inclusion, and active participation of persons with disabilities in society. Through initiatives such as this, we continue to build partnerships, foster dialogue, and jointly create communities where the needs of persons with disabilities are recognized and where quality support is accessible to everyone who needs it. ♿🤝
Strengthening inclusion through psychosocial support in Prizren, Mitrovica and Istog
Over the past year, PREDA Plus Foundation, within the framework of the EMPOWERED project, organized 124 psychosocial workshops in the municipalities of Prizren, Mitrovica, and Istog, reaching more than 450 persons with disabilities, family members, caregivers, and support networks. The workshops provided safe and inclusive spaces where participants could share experiences, learn from one another, and strengthen their personal and social capacities. Through group discussions, creative activities, and peer support, participants addressed a wide range of topics, including disability rights, overcoming stigma and discrimination, stress management, emotional well-being, communication and life skills, financial independence, gender-sensitive support, and community inclusion. By fostering self-confidence, strengthening social connections, and increasing awareness of rights and opportunities, the workshops contributed to greater social participation and empowerment of persons with disabilities and their families. These activities are part of EMPOWERED – Inclusion of Persons with Disabilities, Regional Cooperation and Development in the Western Balkans, a regional initiative that promotes inclusion, accessibility, and equal opportunities for persons with disabilities. Through local actions and community engagement, the project works towards creating societies where dignity, participation, and equal rights become the norm rather than the exception. The workshops implemented by PREDA Plus Foundation demonstrate the importance of psychosocial support as a foundation for stronger, more inclusive communities in Kosovo.
Strengthening advocacy and communication for inclusion across the Western Balkans
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.
Inclusive dialogue for a more accessible Prizren
Creating inclusive communities begins with dialogue, cooperation, and listening to the real needs of citizens. Within the framework of the EMPOWERED project, PREDA Plus Foundation and the Municipality of Prizren organized a public consultation dedicated to the inclusion of persons with disabilities and the improvement of accessibility and support services at the local level. The consultation brought together representatives of institutions, organizations, and community members in an open discussion focused on identifying infrastructural priorities, challenges within existing services, and opportunities for improving the everyday lives of persons with disabilities and their families. Participants exchanged experiences, highlighted barriers that still exist in the community, and proposed concrete ideas and recommendations that can contribute to future local development plans and more inclusive public policies. This activity represents an important step toward strengthening cooperation between local authorities, civil society organizations, and the community in creating sustainable and inclusive solutions. Through joint dialogue and active participation, the consultation aimed to ensure that the voices and needs of persons with disabilities are recognized and integrated into future development processes in Prizren. Through the EMPOWERED project, activities such as this continue to support stronger local partnerships, greater inclusion, and equal opportunities for persons with disabilities across the Western Balkans. 🌍♿💙
Vocational trainings in Travnik open new opportunities for persons with disabilities
♿💼🌍Creating opportunities for education, professional development, and employment is an important step toward greater inclusion and independence for persons with disabilities. 💙 Within the EMPOWERED project, vocational trainings organized by LIR CD in Travnik provided participants with practical knowledge and new skills that can support their stronger participation in the labour market and everyday community life. A total of 11 beneficiaries took part in the educational process, while 9 persons with disabilities successfully completed specialized vocational trainings in different fields, including digital marketing, computer skills, CNC machine operation, and massage therapy. Through these programs, participants gained hands-on experience and competencies that can contribute to their future employment opportunities, personal development, and economic independence. The trainings were designed to respond to the diverse interests and potentials of participants, while also addressing the importance of improving access to education and professional support for persons with disabilities. In addition to acquiring new technical skills, participants had the opportunity to strengthen their self-confidence, exchange experiences, and build connections within a supportive and inclusive environment. Initiatives focused on education, practical skills, and professional development highlight how important it is to invest in the capacities and potential of persons with disabilities through concrete support and accessible opportunities. By creating spaces for learning, skill development, and active participation, the EMPOWERED project continues contributing to stronger inclusion and greater equal opportunities across the Western Balkans. ♿💼🌍
CDI Macedonia and municipality of Valandovo working together on local inclusion priorities
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.
New equipment delivered in Istog to strengthen support for Persons with Disabilities
Step by step, the EMPOWERED project continues to support more accessible and inclusive local communities for persons with disabilities across the Western Balkans. In Istog, new equipment was delivered to the resource class of the primary and secondary school, the HANDIKOS branch, and the Association of the Blind, providing practical support to institutions and organizations that work directly with persons with disabilities. The delivered support includes IT equipment, physiotherapy equipment, didactic materials, and furniture. These resources will contribute to improved working conditions, better access to learning and support services, and a more enabling environment for children, young people, and adults with disabilities in the local community. This activity highlights the importance of cooperation between local authorities, civil society organizations, and project partners in identifying real needs and providing concrete support where it is most needed. By investing in equipment and service conditions, the EMPOWERED project contributes to strengthening everyday support systems and improving opportunities for persons with disabilities and their families. The activity was implemented within the EMPOWERED project, led by ASB South East Europe and supported by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), in partnership with PREDA Plus Foundation and with co-financing from the Municipality of Istog.
Empowered strengthens local capacities for inclusive projects in Prizren
♿🌍🤝Creating sustainable and inclusive change requires strong local cooperation, practical knowledge, and joint action focused on the real needs of the community. 💙 Within the EMPOWERED project, PREDA Plus Foundation organized a three-day Project Cycle Management (PCM) training in Prizren, bringing together representatives of municipal directorates and civil society organizations working in the field of disability inclusion and support for persons with disabilities. The training aimed to strengthen local capacities for developing and implementing inclusive initiatives through practical, hands-on learning and collaborative work. Participants had the opportunity to gain tailored tools, guidance, and step-by-step approaches for transforming ideas into concrete project proposals capable of creating long-term impact within their communities. A particularly important part of the training focused on the joint development of concepts for two Local Inclusion Project proposals. These proposals were designed in line with priorities previously identified through Focus Group Meetings, Public Consultations, and the Municipal Action Plan for Persons with Disabilities, ensuring that future activities directly respond to the real challenges and needs of the local community. Through interactive sessions and teamwork, participants exchanged experiences, discussed local barriers and opportunities, and explored ways to strengthen cooperation between institutions and civil society organizations in order to improve inclusion and accessibility at the local level. The training in Prizren once again highlighted the importance of investing in local knowledge, partnerships, and capacities as a foundation for sustainable inclusive development. By supporting municipalities and organizations in developing practical and community-based solutions, the EMPOWERED project continues contributing to stronger inclusion, equal opportunities, and improved quality of life for persons with disabilities across the Western Balkans. ♿🌍🤝
New equipment delivered to schools and organizations supporting Persons with Disabilities in Leskovac
Improving access to quality support services, education, and community inclusion for persons with disabilities requires continuous investment in local capacities and stronger cooperation between institutions and civil society organizations. 💙 As part of the EMPOWERED project activities in Leskovac, new equipment has been delivered to organizations of persons with disabilities, as well as to the primary and secondary school “11. Oktobar” for children and youth with developmental disabilities. The support includes IT equipment, didactic materials, equipment for psychomotor re-education, and equipment for the corrective gymnastics cabinet, contributing to better working conditions and improved support services for beneficiaries. The activities are implemented by IDC – Initiative for development and cooperation in cooperation with the City of Leskovac within the EMPOWERED project, led by ASB South East Europe and supported by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ). The total value of project activities implemented in Leskovac is approximately 110,000 EUR, while the City of Leskovac contributes with 37,000 EUR, further supporting the development of local inclusive policies and services for persons with disabilities. The delivered IT equipment is intended to strengthen the capacities of several local organizations working directly with persons with disabilities, including the Center for Independent Living of Persons with Disabilities Leskovac, the Muscular Dystrophy Association of Jablanica District, the Association “Naš svet” Leskovac, the Multiple Sclerosis Association of Jablanica District, and the Association of Paraplegics Leskovac. By improving technical and operational conditions for everyday work, the equipment will enable more efficient communication, organization of activities, and provision of support services, while also contributing to greater participation of persons with disabilities in community life. The support delivered so far represents part of broader project activities implemented in Leskovac. In the upcoming period, additional medical equipment deliveries are planned for the “11. Oktobar” school, the Health Center Leskovac, and the District Organization of Blind and Visually Impaired Persons in Leskovac, further improving the availability and quality of services for persons with disabilities. At the same time, several other activities are already being implemented in Leskovac, including psychosocial workshops, career counseling, and vocational education and labour inclusion programs for persons with disabilities. Public calls for beneficiaries from Leskovac, Novi Pazar, and Dimitrovgrad have also been launched, supporting qualification and requalification trainings, practical work opportunities, and integration into companies and organizations. In addition, trainings dedicated to project proposal writing were organized for associations and local stakeholders in order to further strengthen local capacities for developing inclusive initiatives and sustainable community-based solutions. By combining equipment support, educational opportunities, and local cooperation, the EMPOWERED project continues creating stronger conditions for inclusion, accessibility, and active participation of persons with disabilities in community life across the Western Balkans.