Empowered conference: advancing inclusion across the Western Balkans
As part of the three-year regional project EMPOWERED – Inclusion of Persons with Disabilities, Regional Cooperation, and Development in the Western Balkans, the first regional conference titled “Empowered – Challenges and Opportunities for Labour and Social Inclusion of Persons with Disabilities in the Western Balkans” was held in Skopje. The event brought together over 100 participants, including representatives of ministries, international organizations, organizations of persons with disabilities (OPDs), local governments, civil society, and experts from all six Western Balkan countries. The conference was opened by Gjoko Velkovski, Deputy Minister of Labour and Social Policy of the Republic of North Macedonia, with welcoming remarks from representatives of the Embassy of the Federal Republic of Germany, Arbeiter-Samariter-Bund Deutschland e.V. (ASB), and ASB South East Europe (SEE). Local Commitment Across the Region Within the Empowered project, activities are implemented in 15 municipalities across the Western Balkans, committed to advancing the rights and inclusion of persons with disabilities: Key Themes and Conference Outcomes Participants engaged in three thematic panels: These sessions addressed challenges and opportunities related to employment, education, service accessibility, and cross-sectoral cooperation, while highlighting the importance of leveraging existing funding, developing local action plans, and strengthening partnerships among public, civil, and private actors. One of the most significant outcomes of the conference was the political and institutional consensus reached on the establishment of a Regional Working Group on Disability Inclusion, as well as an agreement to jointly develop a Regional Declaration on the Inclusion of Persons with Disabilities. Participants also shared best practices, innovative ideas, and project proposals aimed at strengthening local-level inclusion across the region. Unified Message: Inclusion Is a Right, Not a Privilege Conference conclusions were delivered by Prof. Dr. Violeta Marković of the Faculty of Political Sciences in Belgrade and Gordan Velev, Director of ASB Serbia, who emphasized that the inclusion of persons with disabilities must be grounded in human rights, and that full and equal participation of all citizens is essential for sustainable development and social cohesion in the region. About the EMPOWERED Project The EMPOWERED – Inclusion of Persons with Disabilities, Regional Cooperation, and Development in the Western Balkans project spans 44 months (2024–2027) and focuses on: The project is led by Arbeiter-Samariter-Bund Deutschland e.V. (ASB) and is funded by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), with a total value of 3.33 million euros. It is implemented in partnership with regional organizations: The project seeks to establish a sustainable regional network of solidarity and knowledge, with the goal of creating societies where equality, inclusion, and full participation of persons with disabilities are core values.
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.