Tender ref.no.: BOS2404_IDC/SUPP T 04
TENDER FOR THE SUPPLY OF EQUIPMENT FOR SUPPORT TO LOCAL COMMUNITY WITHIN LOCAL INCLUSION PROJECTS FOR PwDs/ CITY OF LESKOVAC We are informing you that on 12.10.2026. the organization Initiative for Development and Cooperation is opening the procurement for the supply of equipment for support to local community within local inclusion projects for PwDs/ city of Leskovac, reference number BOS2404_IDC/SUPP T 04, 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 company’s memo to request the tender documentation to the e-mail procurement@idcserbia.org. The deadline for submitting offers is November 11, 2026. at 12:00 hours.
Advocacy efforts bring positive results for persons with disabilities in Albania
Advocacy efforts, career guidance and new employment opportunities are bringing tangible results for persons with disabilities in Albania through the EMPOWERED project, implemented by the Albanian Disability Rights Foundation (ADRF). Successful advocacy for more inclusive employment legislation One of the most significant recent achievements is the positive outcome of advocacy efforts concerning proposed amendments to Albania’s Law on Employment Promotion. Working together with a network of disability organisations, ADRF actively advocated against a proposed reduction in the employment quota for persons with disabilities. Through two official submissions and a consultation with the Ministry of Economy and Innovation, the organisations contributed to the removal of this proposed reduction from the draft amendments. This development represents an important achievement for disability organisations and demonstrates the value of coordinated advocacy and constructive dialogue with public institutions. The regional report developed through the EMPOWERED project, together with training on communication and advocacy, provided valuable knowledge and tools that supported these efforts. Strengthening skills and employment opportunities Alongside advocacy activities, ADRF continues to support persons with disabilities through psychosocial support, career guidance and vocational development. So far, 46 psychosocial support and career guidance workshops have been organised, while 20 persons with disabilities have received a total of 185 hours of individual career guidance. These activities help participants identify their strengths, develop professional skills, explore employment opportunities and prepare for greater participation in the labour market. Positive outcomes are also emerging from vocational education and training (VET) and employment-related activities, demonstrating how individual support and cooperation with local stakeholders can create meaningful opportunities. Fatjona’s journey towards employment One encouraging example comes from Shkodra, where Fatjona has started a work placement at the Youth Centre of Shkodra Municipality, assisting students with applications and the issuance of student cards. This opportunity was made possible through the EMPOWERED project, in cooperation with the local employment office and Shkodra Municipality. Beyond gaining practical work experience, Fatjona is developing professional skills and building connections that may support her future employment. ADRF and its local partners are continuing their efforts to turn this opportunity into a sustainable, long-term employment contract. From individual opportunities to systemic change The latest achievements in Albania highlight two complementary dimensions of the EMPOWERED project: supporting individuals in accessing employment opportunities and advocating for policies that protect and advance the rights of persons with disabilities. By combining direct support, capacity building and cooperation with institutions, ADRF contributes to creating a more inclusive labour market and strengthening the participation of persons with disabilities in society. EMPOWERED – Inclusion of Persons with Disabilities, Regional Cooperation and Development in the Western Balkans is funded by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ). In Albania, project activities are implemented by the Albanian Disability Rights Foundation (ADRF).
Tender ref.no.: BOS2404_CDI/SUPP T 02
SUPPLY OF EQUIPMENT FOR SUPPORT TO LOCAL COMMUNITY WITHIN LOCAL INCLUSION PROJECTS FOR PwDs/ Municipality of Demir Kapija We are informing you that on 05.10.2026, the organization Community Development Institute is opening the procurement: SUPPLY OF EQUIPMENT FOR SUPPORT TO LOCAL COMMUNITY WITHIN LOCAL INCLUSION PROJECTS FOR PwDs/ Municipality of Demir Kapija, reference number BOS2404_CDI/SUPP T 02, 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 Cooperation 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 November 4th, 2026, at 12:00 hours.
Tender reference No.: BOS2404-LIRCD-WOR-T04
On 29th of September 2026, organization LIR Civil Society hereby announces the launch of a tender for theReconstruction of the premises of the association for children and persons with disabilities “Sreća za sve” –Travnik, reference number BOS2404-LIRCD-WOR-T04 within the project “EMPOWERED – Inclusion ofpersons with disabilities (PWDs), regional cooperation and development in the Western Balkans”, fundedby the Federal 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; and maja.katic@lircd.orgThe deadline for submitting offers in accordance with the tender documentation is 14. 10. 2026, by 12:00.
Tender reference No.: BOS2404-AC-SUP-T03
We hereby inform you that on 29 September 2026, the organization ALFA Centar is launching a tender for the Supply of equipment to support the local community within the Local Inclusion Project for Persons with Disabilities (PwDs) / Municipality of Nikšić, reference number BOS2404-AC-SUP-T03, within the framework of the project “EMPOWERED – Inclusion of Persons with Disabilities, Regional Cooperation and Development in the Western Balkans”, financed by the Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development of the Federal Republic of Germany (BMZ). All interested tenderers are invited to submit their request for the tender documentation to the following e-mail address: alfacentar@t-com.me The deadline for submission of tenders, in accordance with the tender documentation, is 29 October 2026, by 12:00 (noon).
LIR CD in Travnik – inclusive solutions for persons with disabilities
A meeting of LIR CD and members of the working group was held in Travnik, focusing on activities completed so far, the results achieved, and plans for the upcoming period within the EMPOWERED project. Particular attention was given to the implementation of three inclusive projects in Travnik, aimed at improving accessibility and creating better conditions for the equal participation of persons with disabilities in the local community. The planned activities include: The implementation of these projects will contribute to improved physical accessibility of public and community spaces, facilitate access to essential services, and create better conditions for the inclusion of persons with disabilities in the local community. These activities represent an important step towards a society where equal opportunities and accessibility are available to everyone. Through cooperation with local partners and joint efforts, EMPOWERED continues to support the development of inclusive local communities where inclusion is not only a goal, but a principle put into practice. #EMPOWERED #Travnik #Inclusion #Accessibility #PersonsWithDisabilities #LIRCD
Preventing violence against children and young people with disabilities
Children and young people with disabilities face a significantly increased risk of experiencing violence, abuse, neglect and exploitation compared to their peers without disabilities. This heightened risk is influenced not by disability itself, but by the barriers, inequalities and dependencies that can limit access to protection, information, support and justice. Violence may take many forms, including physical, emotional and sexual abuse, neglect, bullying, online violence, exploitation and harmful practices. It can occur at home, in schools, residential and care settings, healthcare institutions, public spaces or online. Children and young people with disabilities may also face additional risks when they depend on adults for personal care, communication, mobility or access to services. Preventing violence requires a coordinated, rights-based and inclusive approach that places the safety, dignity, participation and best interests of every child and young person at its centre. What is needed to prevent violence? 🔸 Strengthening inclusive prevention and early interventionPrevention programmes, safeguarding systems and early intervention services must be accessible to children and young people with different types of disabilities. Professionals working in education, social protection, healthcare, justice and child protection need appropriate training to identify risks, respond safely and recognise signs of abuse, including non-verbal and less visible indicators. 🔸 Addressing the needs of diverse communitiesChildren and young people with disabilities are not a homogenous group. Their experiences and protection needs may differ depending on their age, gender, type of disability, ethnicity, language, socioeconomic background, place of residence and family circumstances. Effective prevention measures must reflect this diversity and remove barriers that prevent some children from accessing support. 🔸 Ensuring meaningful participationChildren and young people with disabilities have the right to be heard and involved in decisions that affect their lives. Information about rights, risks, reporting mechanisms and available services must be provided in accessible and age-appropriate formats, including easy-to-read materials, sign language, alternative and augmentative communication, audio formats and other forms of support. 🔸 Creating safe and accountable environmentsSchools, care services, organisations and institutions must establish clear safeguarding policies, confidential reporting procedures and effective mechanisms for responding to concerns. Staff and volunteers should understand their responsibilities, while children and families should know where and how to seek help. 🔸 Improving access to justice and support servicesChildren and young people with disabilities who experience violence must have access to timely, confidential and disability-inclusive protection, medical, psychosocial and legal services. Reporting and investigation procedures should be adapted to their communication and support needs, ensuring that they are not excluded or retraumatised during the process. A shared responsibility Preventing violence against children and young people with disabilities is a responsibility shared by families, communities, professionals, institutions, decision-makers and society as a whole. Stronger cooperation between child protection systems, disability organisations, schools, healthcare providers, law enforcement and civil society is essential for identifying risks early and ensuring effective responses. Every child and young person has the right to grow up in a safe, respectful and supportive environment. Inclusion must therefore be understood not only as participation, but also as protection, accountability and equal access to safety. Every child and young person with a disability has the right to be heard, respected, protected and supported to live free from violence.
Tender ref.no.: BOS2404_IDC/WORKS T 02
TENDER FOR THE CONSTRUCTION AND INSTALLATION OF PREFABRICATED HOUSE FOR PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES IN CITY OF DIMITROVGRAD We are informing you that on 22.09.2026 the organization Initiative for Development and Cooperation is opening the procurement for the construction and installation of prefabricated house for persons with disabilities in city of Dimitrovgrad, reference number BOS2404_IDC/WORKS T 02, 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 company’s memo to request the tender documentation to the e-mail procurement@idcserbia.org. The deadline for submitting offers is October 13, 2026. at 12:00 hours.
Tender Reference No.: BOS2404-AC-SUP-T02
We hereby inform you that on 22 September 2025, the organization ALFA Centar is launching a tender for the Supply of equipment to support the local community within the Local Inclusion Project for Persons with Disabilities (PwDs) / Municipality of Pljevlja, reference number BOS2404-AC-SUP-T02, within the framework of the project “EMPOWERED – Inclusion of Persons with Disabilities, Regional Cooperation and Development in the Western Balkans”, financed by the Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development of the Federal Republic of Germany (BMZ). All interested tenderers are invited to submit their request for the tender documentation to the following e-mail address: alfacentar@t-com.me The deadline for submission of tenders, in accordance with the tender documentation, is 22 October 2026, by 12:00 (noon).
Empowered brings stakeholders together to improve policies for persons with disabilities
An open dialogue bringing together key local stakeholders to discuss how policies and support mechanisms for persons with disabilities can be further improved was held in Leskovac. More than 30 representatives of public institutions, civil society organizations, organizations of persons with disabilities, and the private sector took part in the event, creating space for an open exchange of experiences, challenges, and practical solutions for building a more inclusive local community. A central part of the event was the presentation of the Recommendations for Improving Local Policies for Persons with Disabilities in Leskovac. Developed with a focus on local needs, the recommendations propose concrete measures to improve access to services, strengthen existing support mechanisms, and create more opportunities for persons with disabilities to participate actively and equally in community life. The presentation was followed by an open discussion among participants on the current situation, existing services and support mechanisms, and areas where further improvements are needed. Participants also discussed opportunities for stronger cooperation between institutions, civil society, organizations of persons with disabilities, and other local actors. Particular attention was given to the importance of coordinated local action and continued dialogue in ensuring that policies and services respond to the actual needs of persons with disabilities. New opportunities for persons with disabilities The event also provided an opportunity to present the Public Call for the Selection of Beneficiaries, offering persons with disabilities access to: Through these activities, participants will have opportunities to develop new skills, strengthen their employability, receive professional and psychosocial support, and increase their participation in the labour market and local community. More information about the public call, eligibility criteria, and required application documents is available on the IDC Serbia website. The open dialogue in Leskovac is part of broader efforts within the EMPOWERED project to strengthen cooperation between local institutions, civil society, persons with disabilities, and other relevant actors and to translate identified needs into practical and sustainable local solutions. Led by ASB South East Europe, the EMPOWERED project promotes the inclusion of persons with disabilities and supports the development of more accessible and inclusive communities across the Western Balkans. In Serbia, project activities are implemented by IDC – Initiative for development and cooperation, in cooperation with local stakeholders, including the City of Leskovac.