LocationsReLOaD concludes a successful phase and announces a new beginning: From local communities to major changes
December 11, 2024
Podgorica, December 11, 2024 – Projects like the thematic trail in Mojkovac, the social club for persons with disabilities in Nikšić, and viewpoints along a hiking trail in Zeta showcase successful initiatives that have transformed communities across Montenegro through the ReLOaD2 program. The closing event of the program’s second phase, held today in Podgorica, highlighted the significance of four years of work to empower NGOs, enhance collaboration with municipalities, and develop local communities.
Reflecting on the programme's achievements, Ekaterina Paniklova, UNDP Resident Representative in Montenegro, stated: Through two public calls, we supported 85 NGO-led projects, engaging over 12,000 participants across 14 municipalities. The ReLOaD program is more than just funding initiatives – it’s about unlocking the incredible potential of people to shape their own communities and drive the development of their country. By fostering collaboration between local governments and civil society, we support Montenegrin in building a foundation for sustainable progress, empowering individuals and organizations to lead transformative change. This is the essence of our work – working with people, for people, to create a lasting impact for forward-looking human development.”
As the program was implemented with financial support from the European Union, Yngve Engstrom, Head of the Cooperation Sector at the EU Delegation to Montenegro, highlighted the results achieved and the key role of civil society:
“Civil society enables citizens to voice their concerns and connect with government institutions. This connection is at the heart of the ReLOaD program, and we’re now witnessing tangible results. However, there is still much room for improving collaboration between local governments and NGOs, which will be a priority in the next phase.”
Some notable outcomes include the opening of a botanical garden in Pljevlja, the creation of a digital guide for the Old Town of Budva, the adaptation of recreational spaces for the elderly in Andrijevica, and the production of a documentary on Boka’s natural heritage. The value of these initiatives, originating from citizens themselves, lies in their continued impact even after the program’s official conclusion.
Ernad Suljević, Minister of Regional Investment Development and Cooperation with NGOs, commended partner municipalities and NGOs for completing the program, emphasizing that partnership and inclusivity must be imperatives for ensuring overall societal prosperity.
“The Ministry’s priority is to strengthen NGO capacities and actively involve them in public policy implementation. Accordingly, we will continue to create a favorable environment for civil society action. Despite numerous challenges, we remain committed to enacting a new Law on NGOs. Revisions to the law will improve and simplify the registration process, funding mechanisms, and monitoring of implemented programs and projects,” the minister stated.
The closing event summarized challenges and lessons learned, focusing on continuing efforts through the program’s new phase. This upcoming phase will prioritize further strengthening of the civil sector and supporting projects crucial to local communities.
Miloš Čukić, a representative from Andrijevica Municipality, pointed out that 1,200 citizens have left Andrijevica since the last census, emphasizing the need for wiser resource management and potential utilization. “The youth needs analysis conducted by ReLOaD and the identification of cluster-level priorities have significantly helped us plan youth activities and strategic development better,” Čukić said during the panel discussion “How to Make Every Community a Better Place to Live.”
Longtime environmental activist Miodrag Karadžić emphasized the tools and opportunities available for young people to take initiative. “For NGOs to grow and play the role we’ve discussed today, human resources are crucial. However, young people are hesitant to engage in the civil sector, not realizing it’s a space where they can learn a lot and become competitive in the job market,” Karadžić remarked.
The event concluded with the presentation of awards to municipalities and NGOs that made exceptional contributions to the program’s success.
