Regional cross-border cooperation

Engaging Civil Society Organizations for Participatory Democracy, 2006 - 2007

Partners
Conflict Resolution Institute (INRECO), Moldova and Regional Agency for Cross-border Cooperation Lower Danube Euroregion, Ukraine

Objectives
To identify and analyze key issues, challenges and appropriate responses regarding the present situation of NGO involvement in the decision-making processes at local level in Timis County (Romania) and in the cities of Chisinau (Moldova) and Odessa and Reni (Ukraine)
To build capacities in NGOs identified to work in networks and coalitions
To assist NGOs to mobilize individuals, expert groups and ideas within their constituencies to develop stakeholder-inclusive advocacy strategies for enhanced civic participation

Target group
Reprezentantives of NGOs and local public authorities from Moldova (Chisinau and towns), Ukraine (Reni and towns) and Romania (Timisoara)

Outcome
‘Public Participation in Eastern Europe: Opportunities and Challenges’ - Study regarding the engagement of NGOs from Moldova, Romania and Ukraine in the implementation of local policies
26 participants trained in Advocacy and Coalition management
Two advocacy campaigns in Moldova and Ukraine to identify and promote the most efficient mechanisms to communicate between the civil society and representatives of public institutions