ReLOaD2 Regional Conference: Strengthening the relationship between local governments and CSOs is necessary for building a better future in the region

October 6, 2023

 

The third Regional Programme on Local Democracy in the Western Balkans Regional Conference held on the 3rd and 4th of October in Sarajevo was a platform to share experiences and promote critical conversations to improve collaboration between local governments and civil society throughout the Western Balkans region. The conference brought together participants from Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo*, Montenegro, North Macedonia, and Serbia in engaged debates about existing practices, difficulties, and the influence of socio-political events regarding civil society on local levels.

“Civil society organizations act as a bridge between citizens and authorities. The stronger the cooperation between civil society and government, the better the results. This is a symbiotic relationship that needs to be fully embraced – and understood as beneficial to both sides even where civil society asks difficult questions, challenges the decisions of governments, or advocates for policy change. To support better cooperation between civil society and local governments, the EU has allocated over 21 million euros for the ReLOaD Programme in the Western Balkans”, said Deputy Head of EU Delegation to BiH Adebayo Babajide at the opening ceremony.

 

Around 110 participants - representatives of ministries, the European Union, local governments and NGOs have focused on boosting cooperation and trust, presenting a complete overview of the ReLOaD2 program's achievements. The panel discussion aimed to establish the groundwork for a flourishing community, unified in its commitment to change, with the primary goal of empowering communities and fostering innovation and inclusivity. Mirjana Lipovina, head of the sector for NGOs in the Old Royal Capital of Cetinje, presented successful practices from Montenegro at the panel dedicated to transparent financing of the non-governmental sector.

The Old Royal Capital has built clear mechanisms, through which funds are allocated in a transparent manner and has built an increasing openness towards non-governmental partners, creating a stimulating environment for their work and development.

"Non-governmental organizations, as legitimate representatives of citizens and their interests, represent an important factor in the overall socio-economic development of our local community, as well as the state itself. The decision on the conditions and procedure for financing projects and programs of non-governmental organizations was made after the positive experiences we gained by participating in the Reload program," said Lipovina.

Although attempts are made to overcome these issues, there is still a need to improve transparent funding for civil society in the region to ensure proper implementation of the existing regulations. Recommendations are oriented toward improving accountability and efficiency on a local level, emphasizing the significance of improved communication and capacity building. 

 

The Third ReLOaD2 Regional Conference proved to be an incentive for stakeholders to continue collaborating and accelerating the change in the Western Balkans, marking a critical step toward improved local democracies. ReLOaD2, an initiative implemented in 62 partner local governments in the Western Balkans, is funded by the European Union and implemented by the United Nations Development Programme.

 

*For the European Union, all references to Kosovo should be understood in full compliance with Resolution 1244 (1999) and the ICJ Opinion on the Kosovo declaration of independence. For the United Nations, references to Kosovo shall be understood to be in the context of Security Council resolution 1244 (1999).