South and South West Serbia to Better Use Current and Future Investment Funds from a Range of Sources

European Partnership with Municipalities Programme ...to reduce differences between richer and poorer parts of Serbia, and to enable local institutions in the South and South West Serbia to better use current and future investment funds from a range of sources

CONTENTS

05 FOREWORD 07 ABOUT THE PROGRAMME 08 PARTNERS 12 EU PROGRES IN NUMBERS 15 INVESTMENTS AND EMPLOYMENT 17 MUNICIPAL COMPETITIVENESS 19 EDUCATION 21 HEALTH 23 COMMUNAL SERVICES 25 SOCIAL INCLUSION 25 GOOD GOVERNANCE 27 SPORTS AND YOUTH 28 ENVIRONMENT 30 AGRICULTURE 33 GENDER EQUALITY 35 CIVIL SOCIETY AND MEDIA 37 CULTURE 39 CAMPAIGNS, PROMOTION AND BRANDING 41 WHAT MADE A DIFFERENCE? 43 AWARDS AND RECOGNITIONS

FOREWORD

It has been almost four years when a small witnessed the change in the quality of life of enthusiastic, committed and knowledgeable Roma families who got tap water in their team of domestic experts started to work on homes, or when I learned that there were no the implementation of an ambitious and a wide waiting lists for enrolment of children in a ranging development Programme in 25 munici- kindergarten, when children attended school palities in the South and South West Serbia. during harsh winter as their classrooms were Although a bit more time will pass before we finally warm thanks to a new heating system, I can fully measure and understand the impact believe we did a good job together. of what has been achieved, just recently, one of our colleagues said: “EU PROGRES did None of this would have been possible without something real in those municipalities.” And strong partnerships: with the Government of after many years working in development and Serbia and its ministerial representatives on the project management of some less successful Steering Committee chaired and led by the programmes, I dare say I agree. European Integration Office which provided strong guidelines throughout Programme Since mid 2010, EU PROGRES, with the financial implementation; with the donors, the European support of the European Union, the Swiss and Union and the Government of Switzerland, local and national governments, provided grants which in addition to providing funding remained and technical assistance to local self-govern- supportive until the last day of the Programme; ments to implement 250 sub-projects. The work and above of all, with our partners in the field - on capacity development of colleagues in local governments, civil society organisations, municipalities, infrastructure projects, technical development practitioners or ordinary citizens. and planning documentation and improvements of local government services has been the core The pages that follow will reveal only a small of this Programme. But we also supported our part of the work that was done. I think we partners to implement dozens of small projects achieved what we wanted. We did it together. It for the benefit of vulnerable populations. In was a privilege to be a part of this Programme. I implementation of the entire Programme we hope you will enjoy reading as much as we ensured to respect good governance principles enjoyed working in this Programme. and gender equality.

I am sure you will agree that effects are much more important than the number of projects. EU PROGRES enabled employment of 300 people. It complemented efforts of the national and local governments to attract several key Graeme Tyndall commercial investments into the area. Using Programme Manager the technical designs developed with March 2014 Programme’s support, the municipalities already secured funds for implementation of projects. Our initiatives contributed to better public services in education, health and communal affairs… and much more. When I met people with disabilities who got their first jobs thanks to EU PROGRES’ projects, when I Priboj Nova Varoš Ivanjica

Prijepolje Raška Blace Sjenica Prokuplje Žito- Novi Pazar Kuršumlija rađa

Tutin Bojnik Vlasotince Lebane Leskovac Crna Medveđa Trava

Vladičin Han Surdulica HUNGARY

Vranje Bosilegrad Bujanovac Trgovište CROATIA Preševo

ROMANIA

BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA S E R B I A

BULGARIA

MONTENEGRO

ALBANIA FYR MACEDONIA ABOUT THE PROGRAMME

The European Partnership with Municipalities Programme – EU PROGRES was the largest area based development Programme in Serbia, which covered 25 municipalities in the South and South West of the country. From July 2010 until March 2014, it achieved significant results through high quality work within its four components:

Good Governance: created an Municipal Management and Development environment in which decisions are taken Planning, dedicated to improving foundations through interaction of different of local self-governments’ services and creat- stakeholders, accentuating participation, ing preconditions for investments, by support- effectiveness and efficiency, accountability ing development of urban and spatial plans, and transparency. Along with the specific modernization of Citizens’ Assistance Centres, activities within the component, good establishing One Stop Shops and clusters, governance was a cross-cutting theme introducing programme budgeting and capital underpinning the whole Programme. investment planning, as well as expanding databases of local Tax Administration offices.

Social, Economic and Environment Public Awareness and Branding Infrastructure, both on the local and of the South and South West inter-municipal level, which immediately Serbia, in order to promote produced visible results and improved the potentials, build a positive image quality of life of the ordinary people in the South of the area and raise public and the South West Serbia. The joint work of awareness of the socio-economic the Programme and the local self-governments problems and the ways of on design of technical documentation resulted resolving them. in attracting additional investments.

07 2.9 million Euros 20.6 14.1 million Euros million Euros 3.6 million Euros

The European Union

The European Union is the biggest donor to Serbia and The Government of Switzerland has been among has provided more than 2.6 billion Euros over 13 years the biggest bilateral donors to Serbia, with its aid for the reforms in the rule of law, public administration, exceeding 300,000 million Euros in the past two social development, environment and agriculture decades. The new Cooperation Strategy with sectors. At the start of 2014, there were more than 600 Serbia 2014-2017 focuses on three domains: projects for the overall benefit of the citizens of Serbia. improvement of governance, economic develop- The EU provides funds through the Instrument for ment and energy efficiency. Pre-Accession Assistance (IPA), which is being used to support the stabilisation and association process of the candidate countries and potential candidate countries. PARTNERS

EU PROGRES’ budget was 20.6 million Euros: 14.1 million Euros from the European Union, 2.9 million Euros from the Government of Switzerland, while the Government of Serbia co-funded the activities with 3.6 million Euros.

The Government of Serbia ministerial representatives The United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS) in took part in the Programme Steering Committee, but also Serbia has been contributing to the efforts of the Govern- provided financial resources for Programme activities. ment of Serbia to conduct challenging socio-economic Twenty-five partner municipalities also made financial reforms, to facilitate European integrations and to provide contributions for sub-projects. The Steering Committee support to vulnerable and marginalised communities. was chaired and led by the European Integration Office UNOPS had been an assurance of apolitical and develop- (SEIO), which provided strong guidelines throughout EU mental approach in the Programme implementation. PROGRES’ implementation.

09 “This Programme is significant for small and poor municipalities, municipalities in which only the European Union and the Government of Switzerland invest, through EU PROGRES.”

Ljiljana Stojanović Editor-in-Chief, JUGPress agency “Through EU PROGRES, and working in a close partnership with the municipalities from South and South West, Switzerland supports Serbia to promote democracy and brings decision-making closer to the people.”

“EU PROGRES enables municipalities to make Isabel Perich stronger connections and discuss inter-municipal Country Director, Swiss Cooperation Office Serbia cooperation as well as the opportunities for joint projects in the areas of economy, culture, etc.”

Zoran Antić Mayor of Vranje

“The biggest accomplishment of EU PROGRES is giving hope to the citizens of Priboj that they are not alone. This Programme brings fundamental values of the EU closer to the citizens of 25 underdeveloped municipalities, as well as to those that are not included in the Programme, because the results and the benefits of the Programme are visible in the whole Serbia.”

Lazar Rvović Mayor of Priboj “Our big project EU PROGRES has achieved impressive results in the South and the South West Serbia, which only prove that the Delegation of the European Union is dedicated to improve the living conditions for the common people.” “This programme tackles the key issues for the South Michael Davenport Ambassador of the European Union to the Republic of Serbia and South West of Serbia, such as economic recovery, infrastructure and good governance, and helps create much needed perspectives for the youth. Through its competitive selection process only solid and convincing projects are funded. We are proud to support this programme, together with our partners from the “EU PROGRES contributes especially to the EU and the Serbian Government.“ efficient coordination between local self governments and ministries of the Jean-Daniel Ruch Government of Serbia to fulfil development Ambassador of Switzerland to the Republic of Serbia plans of the cities and municipalities in the South and the South West Serbia.”

Ognjen Mirić Deputy Director of the European Integration Office of the Republic of Serbia from 2010-2014 “The diversity of projects supported through EU PROGRES show the depth of EU's involvement in supporting Serbian reforms and our commitment to helping Serbian population live a better life. The EU is a strong and helpful partner in the European integration process that understands and addresses the needs of Serbian citizens.”

Vincent Degert Ambassador of the European Union to the Republic of Serbia from 2009-2013

11 255 projects in total 9 6 promotional and projects supporting branding projects entrepreneurship 12 and clustering inter-municipal projects 24 projects improving gender equality and participation of women 33 planning documents 18 designed projects for improvement of municipal administration 12 other projects 71 civil society organisations projects EU PROGRES IN NUMBERS

Technical assistance

Participatory budgeting conducted in 14 municipalities

One Stop Shops established in Leskovac, Novi Pazar, Vranje and Ivanjica 25 Capital Investment Plans and Programme Budgeting projects for preparation introduced in Nova Varoš, Vladičin Han, Vlasotince, of technical documentation Medveđa and Raška

QMS ISO 9001 and EMS ISO 14001 introduced in Novi Pazar, Bujanovac, Ivanjica, Prokuplje and Surdulica

Foreign direct investment plans developed in Ivanjica, Leskovac, Novi Pazar, Prijepolje and Vranje

45 Key surveys, researches and publications small scale infrastructure projects The Citizens’ Satisfaction Survey, December 2010 and December 2013

Analysis of Budget Practices, December 2012

Obstacles to Infrastructure Development, 2013

The Baseline Competitiveness Study, February 2014

Skills Gap Analysis, February 2014

Making Good Governance Tangible, March 2014

Good Governance - Vertical Dimension, March 2014

Surveys, studies and publications are available on www.euprogres.org 13 Roma entrepreneur Dragica Mihajlović (54) mechanics, fast food, video production, game lost her job in the local carpet factory in the arena and Internet café. Previously, through early nineties. Through Virtual Business "Business Incubation for Returnees” project, Incubator project Dragica received two new eight permanent employments were created loom machines and one sawing machine and when two Business Incubator Centre tenants started her own family business. The project received grants to purchase equipment and helped other 11 people register their own start pellet and furniture production. The company and open 24 sustainble jobs. The total value of both business incubation range of businesses was wide - printing, projects was 143,490 Euros. production of PVC joinery, souvenirs, hairdressing, butchery, fitness, recycling, car INVESTMENTS 300 AND EMPLOYMENT NEW JOBS OPENED 3,000 NEW JOBS EXPECTED 30 million € OF INVESTMENTS FACILITATED

3 CLUSTERS ESTABLISHED

The Programme has complemented project with major potential for for business expansion. For example, actions of the national and local economic development. The Zone privately owned recycling yards in governments to create a more covers 100 hectares, of which 42 Bujanovac and Vladičin Han bene- friendly business environment in the are equipped with water, electricity fited more than hundred people who South and the South West Serbia. and sewage and hence ready for collect secondary raw materials. With one million Euros invested into new investors, primarily the ones 41 projects related to the develop- working on the storage, processing EU PROGRES also facilitated ment of industrial zones, planning and distribution of fresh fruits and establishment of three clusters, documentation and entrepreneur- vegetables. In response to the public gathering 67 entities, of which 50 ship, EU PROGRES contributed to call announced by the City towards are small and medium enterprises: commercial investments of at least the end of 2013, four agribusiness South Serbia Fruit, Radan Mountain 30 million Euros, facilitated employ- companies expressed interest to Tourism and Agro-Pešter. The ment of 300 people, and created the invest 51 million Euros and create clusters should enable its members basis for opening of 3,000 jobs in the 850 jobs. These investments could to improve business processes, next one to five years. create value chain, which will introduce innovations, develop joint generate regular and stable marketing approaches and thus win Development of detailed regulation business for more than 4,000 (new) markets and increase profits. plans and a part of technical designs agricultural producers. for the Industrial Zone in Vranje has Finally, the Programme enabled been part of efforts to attract By supporting the reconstruction of opening of about 100 jobs through investments by Italian shoe manufac- Medveđa wood processing factory infrastructure and civil society turer Geox and furniture producer “Jablanica eko”, the Programme organisations projects. After the Ditre Italia. Geox will invest 15.8 facilitated investment of a Slove- reconstruction of Ivanjica, Raška and million Euros and open 1,250 jobs. nian donor and the Municipality into Tutin kindergartens 56 people were The first 120 people have been machinery worth 820,000 Euros employed, while the equipment for employed, while the construction of and opening of 42 jobs. The new the carpentry workshop of the factory has started. Geox invest- factory will indirectly create Centre for Persons with Disabilities ment should trigger arrival of business for approximately 200 in Raška facilitated temporary several sub-contractors that should local wood suppliers. employment of 30 young people. open additional 500 jobs. Ditre Italia also signed a contract with the Three projects implemented in Government of Serbia to invest into partnership with the Vranje Business the Industrial Zone, estimated at Incubator Centre supported entrepre- 13.4 million Euros, and it will create neurship among vulnerable groups. 400 jobs. The interventions enabled registration of 26 new businesses and The construction of the communal creation of 41 jobs for Roma, women infrastructure within Leskovac and youth. Some of the newly Green Zone is another EU PROGRES’ registered enterprises created room

15 EU PROGRES' support to Ivanjica has been paragraphs were developed and inserted diverse, with assistance provided in the into documents such as job descriptions areas of the foreign direct investment and systematizations, pertaining to planning, OSS establishment, QMS and planning, reporting, evaluation, coordina- EMS certification and development of tion with the Assembly and communication urban plans. Pure good governance reform of the results. All this will improve munici- in Ivanjica resulted in the changes of the pal efficiency, effectiveness, transparency, Municipal Statute and in the Assembly and accountability. Rules of Procedures. New regulatory MUNICIPAL 4 ONE STOP SHOPS ESTABLISHED COMPETITIVENESS 7 GENERAL REGULATION PLANS DEVELOPED 25 DETAILED REGULATION PLANS DEVELOPED 5 CAPITAL INVESTMENT PLANS DEVELOPED

EU PROGRES provided comprehen- capital, multi-year projects, capital developed job descriptions and thus, sive support to local governments investment planning provides de facto, established comprehensive contributing to their improved insight, especially to investors, into institutional mechanism for delivery effectiveness and efficiency, the most important development of quality services. increased capacities and better projects in a particular municipality. service provision, and ultimately As a result of the support to eleven increased transparency and account- Through construction and equipping local Tax Administration Offices, ability. More than 1.4 million Euros of three and modernization of nine 17,000 people were added to the were invested through projects Citizens’ Assistance Centres (CAC), databases, which created a total supporting strategic planning, efficiency of service delivery has increase of invoices issued to service delivery and policy reform. immensely improved. What once taxpayers of 645,119 Euros. At the took days to obtain a document, now same time, the increase in paid The development of the strategic is executed in a matter of minutes. property tax was, on average, plans covered the areas of foreign Furthermore, the services provided almost 25%. direct investment, capital invest- in an open customer oriented ment, programme budgeting and environment enhance transparency EU PROGRES supported introduction urban planning. Over 5,800 hectares and reduce corruption practices. In of Quality Management (ISO 9001) of the construction land were Raška, the CAC services were and Environmental Management covered with 33 planning expanded into four local community Standards (ISO 14001) in Novi Pazar, documents, regulating industrial offices. As a result, 8,000 citizens Ivanjica, Bujanovac, Prokuplje and zones, tourism development areas, didn't have to travel between eight Surdulica, to improve efficiency and communal infrastructure, legaliza- and 30 kilometres. For them, this effectiveness of municipal services tion of informal settlements and intervention approximately saved and functions of municipal admi- cross-border cooperation. This 18,240 Euros of travel costs. nistrations. In practice, the certifica- technical documentation should tion should bring greatest benefits to increase absorption capacity of Just as the CACs provide the the citizens of the five local govern- municipalities by 40 million Euros. services for citizens in one place, the ments by enabling easier access to establishment of One Stop Shops services, faster response time, and Through the capital investment (OSS) created a single point of transparency and accountability. planning process, Medveđa, Vlaso- contact in Vranje, Leskovac, Ivanjica tince, Vladičin Han, Raška and Nova and Novi Pazar, where businesses Varoš defined over 110 projects and investors can also obtain valued more than 100 million Euros. necessary construction permits and For the first time, the five local other information in one place. The governments introduced programme local administrations customised budgeting approach. While the their systematization acts, created programme budgeting will enhance protocols for internal organization of the control of spending, and work, signed agreements with the facilitate planning of finances for relevant public utility companies,

17 The construction of the Elementary Vincent Degert said at the opening School “Radoje Domanović” was the of the School. first completed infrastructure project, funded by EU PROGRES More than 400 Roma and Serbian with 100,000 Euros, with the City children from schools in Leskovac of Leskovac contributing additional were included in educational 50,000 Euros. The school was workshops and multi ethnic accredited in the summer 2012, 15 activities promoting tolerance and pupils were enrolled in preschool multi-cultural cooperation. education and 45 in primary for 2013-2014 school year. “When I grow up, I’ll be a doctor. I will help people get better. I will “The future rests on the youth, cure old people. But in order to this is also a pledge for a better become a doctor, I must study a life of the community,” former lot” eleven-year old Nejžla said. DEU Ambassador to Serbia EDUCATION 12,600 CHILDREN BENEFITED 431 ADDITIONAL CHILDREN ENROLLED IN THREE KINDERGARTENS 43 PEOPLE EMPLOYED

More than 1.4 million Euros were for 2,500 pupils, while the school The quality of vocational education invested to support 48 projects within made savings of 8,000 Euros during for approximately 467 high school the education sector, which benefited the heating season. In Novi Pazar students increased. 12,600 children. Four kindergartens Gymnasium, there were no shortening were reconstructed, one new school of classes thanks to the new boilers. Creative thinking of high school was built and four were renovated; The expenses in the City budget were students and enhancing knowledge in the Programme also funded develop- reduced six times per heating season. the field of anti-discrimination, ment of four technical designs that In Vladičin Han kindergarten, the cultural diversity, Europe and environ- create conditions for new infrastruc- costs for heating were reduced by ment was boosted through participa- ture investments into education, while 20% in the first year after the tion in the EU PROGRES’ Calendar 17 partnership projects between civil reconstruction. The Elementary competition. Over four years, the society organisations and local self School "Raška” conducted environmen- interest in the contest grew and the governments improved different tal awareness campaign, purchased quality of works built up. aspects of schooling. recycling bins and around 900 pupils were educated on primary separation The Programme participates in the Primarily, enrolment of 431 additional of solid waste. work of Stakeholders’ Committee for children was made possible in the Bujanovac Department of the kindergartens in Ivanjica, Raška and Four main designs were developed for Subotica Faculty of Economics of the Tutin. In Raška, for example, the kindergartens and schools in Blace, University of Novi Sad and supports “waiting list” for admission ceased to Vranje, and Novi Pazar. The develop- partners to create conditions for the exist. New employments were ment of technical documentation construction of the building for this created: Ivanjica and Raška kindergar- already facilitated investments. For high education institution. tens employed 43 people. In parallel example, Caritas completed the with the construction, EU PROGRES reconstruction of the Elementary facilitated adoption of amended School “Dositej Obradović” in Vranje, rulebooks on children admission in worth 85,000 Euros, while using three kindergartens, which now documentation developed through EU include positive discrimination of PROGRES. children from vulnerable groups. New sewing machines were delivered While reconstructing the objects, EU to Novi Pazar School for Textile and PROGRES boosted energy efficiency: Design and two classrooms were the new heating systems in schools renovated to enable establishing of and kindergartens only during winter the Vocational Training Programme 2012-2013 made cumulative savings for textile and footwear industry. The of over 60,000 Euros. The replace- School prepared new curricula and ment of external joinery in Preševo, permission for the new vocational the largest elementary school in training from the Ministry of Educa- Serbia, improved education conditions tion is in the final stage of approval.

19 The reopening of the Maternity Ward in Preševo has This project has been a great example of good been the top priority of the Government of Serbia partnership between the Government, donors and for the South of the country. After 24 years, 400 the municipality. The Coordination Body for Preševo, women from Preševo and the area can annually give Bujanovac and Medveđa, the Ministry of Health and birth at their hometown instead of travelling to the Municipality of Preševo funded the construction Vranje, Gnjilane, Priština, Skopje or Kumanovo. The works with 923,000 Euros. EU PROGRES contribu- equipment provided by EU PROGRES for surgical- ted with 255,000 Euros for the medical equipment, maternity ward, kitchen and office appliances, along 130,000 Euros from the Coordination Body. gynaecological examination room, neonatology care and sterilization block directly improves health care for women from Bujanovac and Preševo. HEALTH 11 MEDICAL CENTRES SUPPORTED WITH NEW EQUIPMENT 727,000 € FOR IMPROVED HEALTH CARE 255,000 € FOR MATERNITY WARD IN PREŠEVO

The basis for improved health services Toplica municipalities also benefited There were other small projects, were set in the entire Programme from other small infrastructure partnerships between civil society area by renovation of health care projects. The new modern medical organisations and local self govern- facilities, provision of equipment and laboratory in Kuršumlija can perform ments, which facilitated access of educational and awareness raising around 115,000 analyses annually. Roma to health protection, or campaigns, through projects whose After the construction of a plateau helped this vulnerable group value exceeded 727,000 Euros. outside the Health Centre Prokuplje, exercise their rights in getting 69 new parking spaces were created, access to health protection. With the new equipment for the which decreased traffic congestions Health Centres in Nova Varoš, in front of the building and contribut- Leskovac and Surdulica, citizens have ed to safer transport of patients. better access to screenings and Similarly, in Blace, an emergency health prevention. In Nova Varoš the entrance annex to the Medical number of dental examinations of Centre was constructed, which school children, from October-Decem- reduced the time needed for the ber 2013, increased by 137% from transportation of patients from the the average in the same quarter in ambulance car to the medical office 2011, while the number of examina- from four minutes to one. tions with the new ultra-sound in the last quarter of 2013 equalled the Following the old saying that number of all examinations during “prevention is the best cure”, a 2011. The new X-Ray machine series of educational and awareness delivered to Leskovac Health Centre raising activities took place with the can perform two additional tests – Programme support. A public endoscopy and colonoscopy – while awareness campaign on women the number of exams should increase health “Find the Time“ marked the by 25%. Equipment for early European Cervical Cancer Week with detection and treatment of pulmo- public events in Vranje, Preševo and nary diseases was delivered to the Bujanovac. As a result of a Special Hospital in Surdulica, thus campaign in Priboj, 1,800 women increasing its capacity by 40% took mammography screening, which is 90% from the total number EU PROGRES supported Serbia’s of the planned check-ups for the strategic efforts to improve women’s year. A similar campaign in Sjenica health by procuring equipment worth resulted in the increased number of about 150,000 Euros to the medical preventive check-ups among women centres in Prokuplje, Blace, Kuršumlija, by around 35%. Žitorađa, Nova Varoš, Priboj, Ivanjica and Prijepolje.

21 The new modern water tank truck that water tank truck is also used to supply was delivered to Novi Pazar’s Public other parts of the City with water and Utility Company “Čistoća”, delivers for cleaning the streets. potable water to the reservoir in the Blaževo settlement also constructed Another vehicle, for sewage system in with EU PROGRES’ support. Previously, Novi Pazar, enabled adequate the Programme prepared the main maintaining of waste-water and design for water supply in the should reduce spillage of rainwater settlement with around 50 households and sewage. More than 90,000 people of domicile Roma and internally and local 450 companies live in a displaced persons from Kosovo. The healthier environment. COMMUNAL 16 WATER SUPPLY PROJECTS SERVICES 4 MODERN COMMUNAL TRUCKS DELIVERED 3 GREEN AND DAIRY MARKETS RECONSTRUCTED 150,000 PEOPLE BENEFITED FROM IMPROVED SERVICES

More than 1.9 million Euros were station Suho Polje, provided regular modern truck for pumping out invested to support 34 communal supplies to 2,500 households from sewerage pipes to Novi Pazar, and infrastructure projects, which higher parts of the municipality. The two waste collection trucks to contributed to improved living project also brought savings to the Bosilegrad and Trgovište. Procure- conditions of 150,000 people and Public Utility Company (PUC) “Vrela” ment of the vehicles increased the created favourable business environ- of up to 6,000 Euros per month. technical capacities of public utility ment for more than 800 local These savings increased to 8,000 companies which are now able to companies. Euros after the replacement of the deliver faster and better-quality old asbestos pipes, another EU services to the citizens. The construction works on the dairy PROGRES’ funded project. markets in Bojnik and Žitorađa and Combined, these two projects The regulation of 12% of the the green market in Kuršumlija contributed to 30% increase in the Straževačka River flow through provided adequate sanitary water flow, which meets the town’s Prokuplje prevents flooding. This was conditions for products’ sale. In needs. The Municipality of Sjenica especially important for 600 pupils Bojnik, the Public Utility Company adopted a Decision to use 80% of and 250 Roma who were often (PUC) increased income by 15% the saved funds for further improve- infected by jaundice that occurred during 2013, following the ment of the water supply network because of floods. It is expected that reconstruction of the market and and 20% for subsidies. Thanks to registered cases of jaundice will be adoption of the Decision on the this, the Municipality covers the reduced to minimal level in two years Market Rules and the Use of Stands. costs of water for more than 100 after the intervention. socially vulnerable households. Ten water supply projects contribu- Eight partnership projects between ted to upgrading of water supply Six main designs were developed for local governments and civil society systems and improved delivery of water supply systems, river regula- organisations created small but drinking water. The connection to tion and sewage collectors in useful improvement of communal water supply network in Roma Trgovište, Ivanjica, Raška, Tutin, infrastructure. In Nova Varoš, two settlements Jelašnica (Surdulica), Novi Pazar and Vranje. The develop- public drinking fountains were Ćoška (Vranje) and Blaževo (Novi ment of technical documentation reconstructed while on the Pešter Pazar) made direct positive change already facilitated investments. For Highland, the Inter Municipal Union for 2,400 Roma. In Trgovište example, the Ministry for Regional of Agricultural Associations estab- settlement Novo Selo, the construc- Development and Local Self Govern- lished service for water finding in tion of the main water pipeline and ment provided 25,000 Euros for the rural areas. So far, 25 water sources booster station doubled water inflow construction of 2.8 km of sewage were identified and ten farmers and provided stable water supply for collectors’ system in Tutin, while already dug wells and have new 600 people. using the documentation developed water resources. through EU PROGRES. Possibly the largest impact was seen in Sjenica, where the replacement of The Programme delivered one the pumping system in the water modern water tank truck and one

23 Three projects provided water for settlements inhabited by 800 Roma. In Vranje, the works on the construction of the primary supply pipeline in Ćoška brought fresh water to some 30 households, while in Surdulica village Jelašnica, 400 Roma accessed fresh water. After development of the main design, the Programme supported the construction of the water supply system in Novi Pazar’s Blaževo settlement with 50 households of domicile Roma and internally displaced persons from Kosovo. SOCIAL 29 NEW JOBS FOR ROMA INCLUSION 3,000 VULNERABLE RECEIVED FREE LEGAL AID 800 ROMA HAVE IMPROVED ACCESS TO CLEAN WATER

One of the main differences of EU Services (CAS) and Citizens’ Involve- projects provided clean water to 800 PROGRES, compared to other similar ment Fund (CIF). Both were designed Roma; 13 partnership projects between initiatives, is a strong strive to make a mainly to focus on the needs and the civil society organisations and local self long-lasting impact to a community rights of the vulnerable groups, such as governments facilitated access of and contribution to opening up of new physically or mentally challenged, some 1,200 Roma to education, perspectives for further socio-econom- unemployed, elderly, Roma and women. employment and health protection, ic development. For example, the CAS gave an opportu- reducing social distance towards Roma nity to 3,000 socially excluded people and preserving cultural heritage of this Formally looking, the Programme had to claim their basic rights, such as community. A Roma entrepreneurship two cross-cutting aspects that were medical insurance, pension or child project enabled employment of 29 observed throughout its numerous support, to mention but a few. Simply - people. Detailed Regulation Plan for activities – good governance and they became visible in the eyes of the Mala Guba in Prokuplje essentially gender equality. However, it also law. More than 1,800 people with creates conditions for legalisation and initiated and implemented projects disabilities and elderly received support infrastructure development of a that were specifically addressing the through 23 CIF projects. settlement inhabited by 220 Roma. existing social exclusion issues. The assistance to the challenging To that end, the Programme employed position of the local Roma community two main tools: Citizens’ Advisory was versatile: three infrastructure

GOOD GOVERNANCE

EU PROGRES is one of few develop- show tangible results to the local revised over 30 local policies and ment programmes in Serbia that had self-governments and the citizens. regulations, each and every enhancing good governance concepts and one of the good governance principles embedded in all its How did we do it? Considering that a principles. These policies and regula- activities. It was not easy: we worked large portion of EU PROGRES’ budget tions will enhance sustainability and diligently with the Swiss experts to was allocated for the infrastructure impact of infrastructure project(s); integrate good governance concepts, projects, in parallel with the con- they will ensure that part of (public) accountability, transparency, partici- struction, we worked closely with the affairs is better organised; and, most pation, non-discrimination and municipalities to help them identify importantly, citizens’ interests and efficiency, into a wide range of EU aspects of a particular project that rights will be better addressed. And PROGRES’ socio-economic projects. needed to be addressed. this is not abstract but very real, the This meant transferring good most real issue of all. governance from a conceptual level As a result, the municipalities, with into the living practices that could EU PROGRES’ support, adopted or

SPORTS 400,000 € INVESTED IN SPORTS AND YOUTH AND YOUTH PROJECTS 5 SPORTS AND YOUTH OBJECTS CONSTRUCTED/RENOVATED 480 ACTIVE ATHLETES IN SURDULICA HAVE NEW SPORTS HALL

Five key infrastructure projects, provided conditions for proper The construction of the first worth almost 400,000 Euros, directly functioning of this facility. Sports Hall in Surdulica created benefitted sportsmen and sports- adequate conditions for sports women and young population of The adaptation and furnishing of the and recreational activities for the Surdulica, Žitorađa, Kuršumlija, Novi Youth Centre in Priboj creates entire population of the munici- Pazar and Priboj. There were 15 other conditions for organizing lectures, pality. There are about 480 active small projects, worth over 130,000 vocational trainings, cultural and arts athletes, boxers, football, Euros, implemented in partnership of programmes, individual counselling, basketball, volleyball and karate municipalities and civil society various promotions, presentations, players who now have indoor organisations, that supported youth and exhibitions for more than 5,100 training facility. In addition, the initiatives - environmental education, young people. It also improves the Sports Hall is used for practice inclusion of vulnerable groups and institutional framework for affirma- and physical education of pupils, trainings on writing project proposals. tion of young people and their sports events for women's clubs, inclusion in building of civic society. and gives appropriate access to In Novi Pazar deficiencies in the people with disabilities. original technical design meant that the Sports Hall “Pendik” didn’t have This project is in line with the heating, which made it almost Sports Development Strategy in unusable during the wintertime. EU Serbia, as well as with Surdulica PROGRES installed a boiler-room and Sustainable Development distribution network for heating and Strategy. The total value of the ventilation. This put “Pendik” into full project was 320,000 Euros, while functionality for organising sports the EU and the Swiss Govern- matches and practices, fairs and ment, through EU PROGRES exhibitions. In Žitorađa, the construc- provided 100,000 Euros. tion of stands and supporting facilities on the Stadium improved the conditions for recreational activities for children and youth and at the same time contributed to the growth in the number of visitors by 60%. The number of sports events increased by 52% in the first year after the construction. Ten sports clubs use Kuršumlija Sports Hall. The work on ventilation and fire protection systems, as well as on the land- scaping around the Hall improved technical and safety conditions and

27 ENVIRONMENT

Environmental protection was among order to ensure the environment is Management System ISO in Golija Mountain was arranged, high priorities for the Programme. EU not endangered. 14001:2004, in parallel with the enabling organisation of series of PROGRES worked on 48 projects, Quality Management System ISO environmental lectures. The most worth 2,396,950 Euros, that directly Waste water management has been 9001:2008, in five municipalities, popular sport and tourist destination tackled environmental issues. Out of an important part of the verifying that the local self govern- in Novi Pazar "Borići" with the trail for that number 19 were inter-municipal Programme’s efforts: technical ments are aware of the environmen- running, located in the old pine forest, and local infrastructure projects, documentation was developed for the tal management importance. was revived. Primary waste separa- worth more than 1.75 million Euros. Waste Water Treatment Plant tion system in the biggest elementary All work was guided by the national (WWTP) for Kopaonik, while in Furthermore EU PROGRES invested school in Raška with around 1,000 strategies regulating solid waste and addition to preparation of documenta- efforts to promote awareness of pupils was established. In Preševo, waste-water management. tion, WWTPs were constructed in environmental issues. The last of the green area and plants within the Crna Trava and Trgovište. Effluent three Programme public awareness schoolyard in Elementary School The work on solid waste management metres were provided to four Pčinja campaigns “Where Is Your Threshold "Ibrahim Kelmendi" are protected and included the construction of the municipalities, enabling measurement of Responsibility?” was designed to the trash containers installed, while Recycling Centre in Nova Varoš and of waste-water quantities and promote environmental accountabili- pupils marked the Earth Day within provision of containers to four providing inputs for further infrastruc- ty of each citizen, and increase the action organized by the then municipalities in the South West ture development in this field. EU knowledge about recycling and Ministry of Environment Protection. Serbia. In Bosilegrad, the territory PROGRES supported major flood energy efficiency. Different actions of As a result of a mini project in Toplica covered by municipal waste collection protection project for Novi Pazar that the campaign saw participation of District, four composters were increased to 50%, while in Trgovište will prevent frequent damaging of 1,700 people, campaigns` key installed in the High School in Blace With EU PROGRES’ support, Nova Varoš, Priboj, Prijepolje to 80%, following the purchase of the buildings, roads and agricultural land, messages were transmitted through while public places in Prokuplje, and Sjenica, formed a company that is responsible for the communal waste collection trucks. which only in 2011 was almost two 152 media reports and there were Žitorađa and Blace were cleaned. solid waste management in the region – the LLC “Banjica”. million Euros. 27,000 unique visitors registered on The Programme also funded development of the main EU PROGRES also supported the campaign website. In two design for the landfill, which will enable the LLC Banjica to implementation of the Regional The results of several municipal clean-up actions of illegal dumpsites, seek funding for the construction. The four municipalities Waste Management Plans by funding projects will also have impact on in Vranje and Prokuplje, the citizens allocated funds in their budgets for the functioning of the design of technical documentation environment: installation of bio-fuel collected 80 cubic metres of waste in LLC Banjica, second year in a row, which guarantees the for two landfills, three recycling boilers in Prijepolje and of heating several hours. sustainability of the action. The works on the access road to centres and one transfer station, as system in Novi Pazar Gymnasium, the Landfill are already contracted from these funds and well as design of documentation for replacement of joinery in Preševo Finally, on a small scale, seven will start in spring 2014. re-cultivation of an old landfill. School and Vladičin Han kindergarten environmental projects were support- Seventeen general and detailed enhanced energy efficiency of these ed through the Citizens’ Involvement Within work on the integrative waste management solution regulation plans, i.e. 53% of all urban buildings. Only those four projects Fund, in partnerships between the in the area, the Programme supported establishment of a planning documents that were contributed to savings of about local self-governments and the civil recycling centre in Nova Varoš. The centre became developed with EU PROGRES’ 62,000 Euros in electricity bills and society organisations. In Leskovac, operational in 2013 and in the first six months it collected support, included the preparation of fuel per heating season. the so-called “turbolators” for three and separated 18,346 kg of paper; 1,446 kg of PET; 2,538kg Strategic Environment Impact boilers on the heating plant were of PVC and 50m3 of various metals. Selected materials Analysis (SEIA). These documents set The Programme also supported the replaced and directly reduced CO₂ were sold and earned the Centre a total of 349,390 Dinars. limitations for future construction in introduction of the Environmental emissions. In Novi Pazar a picnic area 48 PROJECTS DIRECTLY TACKLED ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES 2 WASTE WATER TREATMENT FACILITIES CONSTRUCTED 62,000 € SAVINGS IN ELECTRICITY BILLS AND FUEL PER HEATING SEASON

Environmental protection was among order to ensure the environment is Management System ISO in Golija Mountain was arranged, high priorities for the Programme. EU not endangered. 14001:2004, in parallel with the enabling organisation of series of PROGRES worked on 48 projects, Quality Management System ISO environmental lectures. The most worth 2,396,950 Euros, that directly Waste water management has been 9001:2008, in five municipalities, popular sport and tourist destination tackled environmental issues. Out of an important part of the verifying that the local self govern- in Novi Pazar "Borići" with the trail for that number 19 were inter-municipal Programme’s efforts: technical ments are aware of the environmen- running, located in the old pine forest, and local infrastructure projects, documentation was developed for the tal management importance. was revived. Primary waste separa- worth more than 1.75 million Euros. Waste Water Treatment Plant tion system in the biggest elementary All work was guided by the national (WWTP) for Kopaonik, while in Furthermore EU PROGRES invested school in Raška with around 1,000 strategies regulating solid waste and addition to preparation of documenta- efforts to promote awareness of pupils was established. In Preševo, waste-water management. tion, WWTPs were constructed in environmental issues. The last of the green area and plants within the Crna Trava and Trgovište. Effluent three Programme public awareness schoolyard in Elementary School The work on solid waste management metres were provided to four Pčinja campaigns “Where Is Your Threshold "Ibrahim Kelmendi" are protected and included the construction of the municipalities, enabling measurement of Responsibility?” was designed to the trash containers installed, while Recycling Centre in Nova Varoš and of waste-water quantities and promote environmental accountabili- pupils marked the Earth Day within provision of containers to four providing inputs for further infrastruc- ty of each citizen, and increase the action organized by the then municipalities in the South West ture development in this field. EU knowledge about recycling and Ministry of Environment Protection. Serbia. In Bosilegrad, the territory PROGRES supported major flood energy efficiency. Different actions of As a result of a mini project in Toplica covered by municipal waste collection protection project for Novi Pazar that the campaign saw participation of District, four composters were increased to 50%, while in Trgovište will prevent frequent damaging of 1,700 people, campaigns` key installed in the High School in Blace to 80%, following the purchase of the buildings, roads and agricultural land, messages were transmitted through while public places in Prokuplje, communal waste collection trucks. which only in 2011 was almost two 152 media reports and there were Žitorađa and Blace were cleaned. million Euros. 27,000 unique visitors registered on EU PROGRES also supported the campaign website. In two implementation of the Regional The results of several municipal clean-up actions of illegal dumpsites, Waste Management Plans by funding projects will also have impact on in Vranje and Prokuplje, the citizens design of technical documentation environment: installation of bio-fuel collected 80 cubic metres of waste in for two landfills, three recycling boilers in Prijepolje and of heating several hours. centres and one transfer station, as system in Novi Pazar Gymnasium, well as design of documentation for replacement of joinery in Preševo Finally, on a small scale, seven re-cultivation of an old landfill. School and Vladičin Han kindergarten environmental projects were support- Seventeen general and detailed enhanced energy efficiency of these ed through the Citizens’ Involvement regulation plans, i.e. 53% of all urban buildings. Only those four projects Fund, in partnerships between the planning documents that were contributed to savings of about local self-governments and the civil developed with EU PROGRES’ 62,000 Euros in electricity bills and society organisations. In Leskovac, support, included the preparation of fuel per heating season. the so-called “turbolators” for three Strategic Environment Impact boilers on the heating plant were Analysis (SEIA). These documents set The Programme also supported the replaced and directly reduced CO₂ limitations for future construction in introduction of the Environmental emissions. In Novi Pazar a picnic area

29 AGRICULTURE

EU PROGRES invested 950,000 Euros whose direct result was improvement Support was extended to two clusters vulnerable groups to start agriculture to support three regional projects in of fruit producers’ capacities on which will aid agricultural develop- production for their own needs but the field of agriculture, establishment modern techniques of fruit production ment: the Agro Cluster in Pešter, also as a source of generating family of two agricultural clusters, and by 30%, while the number of trees in gathering 26 dairy producers and income. Service for water finding in several small scale interventions the Pčinja District increased by 12.5%. business supporting institutions from rural areas was established in Novi contributing to rural development. The educational-training orchard, Novi Pazar, Sjenica and Tutin, and the Pazar, Tutin and Sjenica, where 25 covering one hectare, was established South Serbia Fruit Cluster in Leskovac water sources were identified and ten In the South West, the Programme and 202,247 fruit seedlings were gathered 12 fruit processors and farmer households already dug wells. allocated 255,690 Euros for the distributed to all 373 registered business supporting institutions. After Another small project created establishment of the Regional Centre individuals. The agriculture equipment the B2B event “Meet the Buyer” conditions for rural economic for Development of Agriculture on the was delivered to Vladičin Han, the organized by the Pešter Agro Cluster, development and increased capacity Pešter Plateau and supported writing municipality in charge of management increased turnover of 6,000 Euros for strategic planning: through of the Centre’s feasibility study, of the orchard. was reported. production of a study “Analysis of construction of the facility and Rural-Economic Situation in the procurement of agricultural machi- The construction of the communal One of the crucial aspects for both Pčinja District” and through creation nery. The Centre will provide laborato- infrastructure within Leskovac Green inter-municipal projects was the of ID cards for 15 villages. ry testing, cattle registration, Zone, in the value of 338,772 Euros, establishment of project organisation machinery renting, education and is likely the project that has the most - founding documents, management Finally, development of several advising, and thus will directly benefit significant potential to accelerate the system, job systematizations, business branding plans identified the more than 200 agricultural producers rural development of the South models and financial plans - in line products, provided accurate informa- in Sjenica, Novi Pazar and Tutin. The Serbia. The Zone covers 100 with the good governance principles. tion about their market position and project is an example of multiple donor hectares, of which 42 are equipped helped improve knowledge of support to enhance the results: the with water, electricity and sewage EU PROGRES worked closely with agricultural producers on marketing Government of the Czech Republic and hence ready for new investors, stakeholders to ensure sustainability management. In the South West delivered the equipment for the primarily the ones working on the of its efforts. Novi Pazar, Tutin and Serbia, the Market Survey and Centre’s Laboratory as well as the production, storage and distribution Sjenica allocated three million Dinars Research of Pešter products was lacto freezers for the farmers, the of green produce and food. This site each for the work of the Regional conducted and served as the basis Office for Sustainable Development of has a potential to absorb major Centre for Development of Agriculture for development of the Marketing Underdeveloped Areas funded a part of investments, it should benefit over in 2014. Vladičin Han Municipality and Branding Plan of Pešter the construction and equipment, while 4,000 agricultural producers from provided 14,000 Euros from its products. In Leskovac, the focus of each municipality contributes to annual the area and enable opening of over budget for the work of the education- the branding project was the best use running costs. The consultations with 1,000 jobs in the coming years. The al-training orchard in 2014. of sour cherry, while the Toplica the Ministry of Agriculture, Trade, significance of the Zone may project focussed on the plum. Forestry and Water Management were potentially expand beyond Serbia’s Four small partnership projects crucial in aligning the project with the borders, knowing that the agricultur- between civil society organisations national legal regulations. al producers and processors from and municipalities improved different other countries expressed interest to aspects of agriculture. In Bosilegrad, In the Pčinja District, EU PROGRES invest in the Zone. for example, support was extended to funded a project worth 257,700 Euros Roma and other families from 3 MAJOR REGIONAL PROJECTS 630 AGRICULTURAL PRODUCERS AND PROCESSORS BENEFITED 38 AGRICULTURAL ORGANISATIONS FORMED TWO DAIRY AND FRUIT CLUSTERS

31 It took only two months of EU PROGRES’ intensive commitment to respect the European Charter. work with the committed Coordination Team in Nova Varoš, to make possibly the biggest step “Attitudes and behaviour towards gender are towards creating the institutional preconditions acquired and may change with circumstances. The for the improvement of the position of women in a fact is that gender equality is in the interest of local community. From a municipality that didn’t both men and women and society as a whole. This have either a local body or financial capacities, is why the Gender Equality Council of the Nova Nova Varoš became the first municipality that had Varoš Municipality will continue striving to ensure comprehensive approach to working on the gender gender equality in all walks of life, both public and agenda: established GEM, developed Local Plan private.“ Danijela Topalović, Chairwoman of Nova and funding for its implementation, as well as Varoš GEM GENDER 12 GENDER EQUALITY MECHANISMS EQUALITY ESTABLISHED 9 MUNICIPALITIES ADOPTED BUDGETS FOR GENDER PROJECTS 24 PROJECTS SUPPORTED 9 WOMEN ESTABLISHED THEIR BUSINESS

There are almost equal number of Twenty-four projects prepared by local additional grant, is the provision of women and men in the South and GEMs, all identified as priority in the equipment for Preševo Maternity South West Serbia. And yet, there is municipal LAPs, were supported. The Ward, worth 255,000 Euros. This no reciprocity when it comes to effects of seven projects supported intervention has been the top priority gender equality in the public sphere. through the first call, were already of the Government of Serbia for the In 2010, when the Programme visible in the field of improvement of South and created conditions for the started, only 18% of local councillors women and youth health, prevention reopening of the Ward after 24 years. were women, while median level of of violence, economic empowerment It is estimated that 400 women from representation of women in local and improvement of political Preševo and the area will give birth public organizations and institutions representation. In Priboj, campaign to annually at the Ward instead of was around 26%. Following 2011 educate the public on the importance travelling to nearby cities. Other eight elections, the number of women in of improvement of women’s health medical centres also received local parliaments rose to almost 30%, resulted in 1,800 women taking necessary equipment. The provision which is the minimum prescribed by mammography screening, which is of equipment went hand in hand with the Law. Though it would be pompous 90% from the total number of planned the public awareness campaign on to claim that this result can be solely check-ups. A similar campaign in women health, “Find the Time“, whose attributed to the Programme, EU Sjenica led to around 35% increase in first three public events kicked off in PROGRES undoubtedly played an the number of preventive check-ups Vranje, Preševo and Bujanovac within important role in raising awareness of among women. Nova Varoš GEM the European Cervical Cancer Week. the local population of the gender organised campaign to tackle equality agenda. gender-based violence. By the end of Furthermore, nine business start-up the campaign, the local Centre for grants were awarded to women Primarily, by establishing local Social Work received eight complaints entrepreneurs, dealing with a variety gender equality mechanisms (GEMs) against domestic violence. In previous of businesses: from crafts and artisan in all 12 municipalities, the years, no such cases were recorded. manufacturing shops, through Programme set up institutional agriculture production and bookkeep- precondition for advancing the Based on the Programme’s results, ing services, to dental centre. This equality of men and women in those the Swiss Agency for Development intervention created nine jobs, with a communities. Nine municipalities and Cooperation (SDC) allocated solid perspective to create more in adopted the European Charter on additional 402,850 Euros for actions the foreseeable future. Equality of Men and Women in Local that would contribute to strengthen- Life and an equal number prepared ing of institutional framework and of Finally, through an extensive outreach local action plans (LAPs) that were relevant capacities of key local actors programme on gender-based discrimi- endorsed by the municipal assem- in all 25 municipalities, but also that nation by the Commissioner for the blies. Nine adopted budget lines for were in support of the national Protection of Equality (CPE), both the gender related activities. Taking strategies and action plans. institutional capacity of this organisa- only these indicators into account, tion was enhanced and women’s the Programme exceeded its Individually, the most significant access to rights in South and South planned results. project supported through this West Serbia was improved.

33 Two projects implemented in Bosilegrad demon- strated how the joint efforts of the entire community could make life easier for people from vulnerable groups. In the first, the owners gave their unfarmed land for free use to 25 Roma families, with more than 110 members. In cooperation with the municipal institutions, the civil society organisation Optimist provided seedlings, knowledge on farming and farming machines. During the second project, ten most disadvantaged Roma, Bulgarian and Serbian families received support to grow strawberries in greenhouses. CIVIL SOCIETY 66 PARTNERSHIPS OF CIVIL SOCIETY AND MEDIA ORGANISATIONS AND MUNICIPALITIES 16,500 DIRECT BENEFICIARIES, PRIMARILY VULNERABLE 15 PERMANENT JOBS FOR VULNERABLE

Working with the civil society water finding service and club for when the implementation of CIF organisations (CSOs) and empowering elderly people in Novi Pazar, projects finished. For example in them to be the partner of choice for assistance and care of elderly people Vladičin Han the local government municipalities, but also to endure in at their homes in Priboj, children’s continued to support the Association their role of watchdogs – and to sports and cultural centre in Tutin, of Roma Intellectuals in organisation remind the local administrations to be tourist info centre in Surdulica, of additional classes for Roma accountable, efficient and to respect cleaning public utility service in children, while in Lebane the munici- the rule of law, was one of the areas Preševo, mini rehabilitation centre in pality funds two gender equality where EU PROGRES achieved Leskovac, a youth centre in Prijepolje. projects related to health prevention remarkable results. This was done Four municipalities, Preševo, Žitorađa, and gender sensitive budgeting. through 66 small projects, financed Prokuplje and Novi Pazar, provided with 530,000 Euros during two calls free legal aid to their citizens, in EU PROGRES also supported small, for proposals of the Citizens’ Involve- cooperation with the CSOs, while independent media, through three ment Fund (CIF), all of which were participatory budgetary hearings small projects. Radio Sto Plus’ project realised in partnerships between civil were organised in twelve municipali- “EU Funds – What’s in It For Me?” society organizations and local ties - Vranje, Leskovac, Kuršumlija, through seven radio shows reached government institutions. Along with Bojnik, Surdulica, Žitorađa, Medveđa, about 7,500 people, emphasizing 16,500 direct beneficiaries, it is Novi Pazar, Raška, Sjenica, Prijepolje donor support to the development of estimated that the number of indirect and Nova Varoš. the South West Serbia and underlin- beneficiaries exceeded 600,000. ing the European values. The daily In several municipalities CIF projects newspaper Danas, in its supplement Through these small projects, responded to the needs of around Sandžak Danas, published 13 articles Programme enabled permanent 1,200 Roma in education, achieving on gender equality to increase employment for 15 people and rights to health care and social awareness on importance of gender temporary jobs and occasional benefits, economic empowerment, equality and impact on higher income for 83 people. Only in Raška, and preservation of cultural heritage involvement of women in the opening of a carpentry workshop and improvement of life conditions. decision-making. and training of people generated cyclical temporary employments for Along with improvement of living in 30 people with disabilities. Four the local communities, CIF projects people with disabilities in Vranje got were highly important in terms of permanent employment after the capacity building of the civil society purchase of copy machine and organisations themselves. The opening of a kiosk for photocopying. efficiency and accountability of the organisations grew and other donors Several services were established or started to observe that CSOs became improved through CIF: weekend “more reliable partners”. Furthermore, programme for children with disabili- the partnerships between municipalities and their families in Ivanjica, ties and the CSOs continued, even

35 The reconstruction of the Homeland Museum in Priboj, and building of an open amphitheatre was funded with 100,000 Euros. The building can now host a standing exhibition of the diversity and rich cultural and historical heritage of this part of Serbia.

“The European Union’s support for cultural projects is very important for Priboj, because they can give an impetus to the economic development of this region. The Homeland Museum has artefacts that are over 7,000 years old and that many people may find interesting,” the Mayor of Priboj, Lazar Rvović, said. CULTURE 12 LOCAL FESTIVALS SUPPORTED 3 LARGE INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECTS

There were three large infrastructure advancing the national identity of the Finally, some branding projects also projects that contributed to preserva- Albanian community. included events that focused on local tion of cultural and historical cultures and traditions. For example, heritage: the reconstruction of Priboj The EU PROGRES role in organisation Novi Pazar Way of Living was Homeland Museum, the restoration of of Children Creativity Festival FEDES presented to audiences in Subotica, the library in Vlasotince, and prepara- in November 2012 and in spring 2014 Leskovac, Vranje, Kragujevac, Novi tion of the technical documentation was fundamental, as the Festival Sad, Niš and Kraljevo. The media that for the reconstruction of the Vranje could not have happened otherwise visited the City published articles National Theatre. due to the cuts in municipal budget. recommending Novi Pazar as a great The event enabled elementary school place, with many activities, from "Gigina kuća", that has been housing children from the Toplica District to diverse historic monuments to great Vlasotince library for 101 years, and show their talents in drawing, food, wonderful people and youth, to one third of its book fund, were painting, writing, singing, instrument great fun at night. burned during a fire in 2008. The playing and folklore. The Programme restoration, which had been done in also assisted organisation of five local stages, was only completed after EU festivals in summer 2013, which were PROGRES provided support. Vranje visited by over 146,500 people: Blace National Theatre was burnt in 2012. Plum Festival, Raška Holy Festivity, Thanks to EU PROGRES’ assistance Priboj Lim Fest, Kuršumlija Summer for preparation of technical documen- Festival and “Nušićijada” in Ivanjica. tation, the City managed to raise more than 260,000 Euros to Small community initiatives that reconstruct the building. promoted diversity and richness of cultures in the South and South West “Together towards inter-culturalism” Serbia were also sponsored: annual project was based on partnership celebrations of the World Roma Day, between three National Minority Bosilegrad International Folklore Councils (NMCs): the Albanian, Festival, “Pazarska Sofra” - a manifes- Bulgarian and Roma. The project tation that through traditional music, supported intercultural dialogue and costumes and delicacies promoted strengthening trust and cooperation multiculturalism and tolerance, among young people from different Prijepolje Multimedia Festival of ethnic, religious, social and cultural Cultural Diversity “We and Others” backgrounds. Other institutional that premiered a film produced by support included provision of furniture young Bosniaks and Serbs about and equipment for the new offices of uniqueness and connections between the Albanian National Minority the two cultures. Council in Bujanovac, enhancing the working conditions on promoting and

37 The Programme supported Blace Plum Festival in 2012, during its tenth anniversary when the Festival attracted a record number of 100,000 visitors. This was an increase of 40 per cent compared to 2011. The Programme’s influence on the local government to avoid drinking contest and promote safe driving, resulted in no negative media reports about the event. The project also equipped the Tourist Information Centre in Blace, while a database of all participants of the lectures on maintaining an orchard, a new website and a refreshed visual identity guarantee more successful organisation of the event in the future.

The campaign “Europe That is You”, helped thus were introduced to the relevant in raising awareness and understanding of subjects related to the European values, the EU pre-accession process in 25 and Serbia's EU integration process. For municipalities of the South and the South most people personally involved in the West Serbia. About 600 representatives of activities, the campaign has fortified their media, municipal administrations, agricul- positive attitude toward Serbian EU ture producers and business community, integration process. high-school pupils, students, were directly involved in the campaign activities and CAMPAIGNS, 9 PROMOTIONAL AND PROMOTION AND BRANDING PROJECTS 4 BRANDING PUBLIC AWARENESS CAMPAIGNS 250,000 VISITORS AT 12 LOCAL FESTIVALS

One of the key obstacles to sustaina- outdoor furniture on Golija create protection through “Where is Your ble development is negative image of more versatile offer for domestic and Threshold of Responsibility?” and the most Programme municipalities. foreign tourists. Furthermore, the reproductive health through campaign The Programme tried to address this brochure “Golija Lakes Myths and “Find the Time”. Municipalities, by preparing nine image-building and Legends” presents the three lakes in a regional development agencies, branding projects, and by increasing unique way. tourism organisations, relevant the municipal capacities to promote governmental organisations and other their own potentials. Promotion of agriculture potentials in non-profit entities participated in all Jablanica and Toplica Districts through promotional activities. Three projects contributed directly to support to the Cherry Festival in promotion of products and invest- Leskovac and the Plum Days in Blace ment in areas with the greatest increased awareness of the two capacity for the regional economic products that could provide significant development. The “Strategic Tourism economic impact. Both events, besides Marketing Plan for Zlatibor/Zlatar” the entertainment, featured a series and the “Marketing and Branding Plan of educational workshops, which for Pešter Products”, set the basic pointed to diversity of possibilities for grounds for further strengthening of utilization of sour cherry and plum. regional competitiveness in the This included the use of cherry stone national and international markets. A as a renewable source of energy. publication produced in four langua- ges (English, Italian, German and The project that promoted the City of Serbian) and a smartphone applica- Novi Pazar through a caravan tour tion within the branding project in across the country and hosting of the Vranje contributed to promotion of most influential media representa- the image of the City as invest- tives impacted on stronger coopera- ment-friendly environment. tion with seven other cities throughout Serbia and creation of an image Projects also contributed to the of Novi Pazar as a city of youth and increase of tourism potentials by rich tradition. improving tourism infrastructure and the overall tourism offer on the Further to branding efforts, the mountains Golija and Zlatar and the Programme implemented four public Vlasina Lake. A sunbathing platform awareness and advocacy campaigns creates a recognisable picture of the that addressed concrete societal Vlasina Lake, essential for branding of issues: good governance through any tourism destination, while a 56 campaign “I Want Because I Live kilometres long walking trail and two Here”, European values through bird watching points on Zlatar and the “Europe That is You”, environmental

39 EU PROGRES

GOOD GOVERNANCE FUNDS ADVISORY UPPORT AND MONITIRONG

MUNICIPALITY

PUBLIC PROCUREMENT

CONSTRUCTION WORKS

NEW KINDERGARDEN REGULATION ENSURING ENHANCED MUNICIPAL NON-DISCRIMINATORY CAPACITY FOR PROJECT ENROLMENT OF CHILDREN MANAGEMENT

LINKING INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECTS WITH GOOD GOVERNANCE WHAT MADE A DIFFERENCE?

Any project that would tackle ment of the Position of Women and special quality in our approach – only unemployment, improve local Promotion of Gender Equality. in everyday communication with infrastructure, contribute to invest- Finally, 87% of projects were our partners and citizens we could ment opportunities, enhance executed through grant methodolo- understand their needs. EU municipal management or promote gy, which gives the grantees owner- PROGRES’ team of about 30 people, image of an area, would certainly ship over implementation, while EU originated mainly from the South and change, for the better, living PROGRES maintained monitoring South West Serbia. We are proud conditions. Just so, EU PROGRES and advisory role. that the domestic experts and made a positive contribution in the knowledge played a key role in the South and the South West Serbia. Introduction of good governance, its implementation of the Programme. But, how was EU PROGRES different concept and principles in the work of from other projects? In which way the local governments has been Finally, EU PROGRES has been did it add value to those already another notable EU PROGRES’ implemented in a challenging and visible improvements? feature. This endeavour didn’t remain complex environment. It was not superfluous, self-serving exercise, but easy, at any time, but we got the job EU PROGRES fully respected the a set of meaningful, carefully planned done. And we implemented a lot of national ownership over the and executed activities within and concrete, tangible and real projects. Programme, understanding this is a tightly related to the Programme foundation for capacity building and activities, designed to initiate a sustainability. First, continuous positive change. Our unique approach efforts were put to ensure that is best described when we explain national stakeholders are consulted how we linked infrastructure and good and have a significant role through- governance. For example, when we out the execution. Furthermore, built a new kindergarten, we also activities facilitated implementation helped the municipality to define of Serbia’s strategies and legislation, regulations that would prevent i.e. contributed to the overall discrimination during children’s reforms, especially the ones needed enrolment and established a mecha- for integration into the European nism that allowed parents to provide Union. For example, the technical feedback on kindergarten’s perfor- support that the Programme mance. What did these regulations provided to municipalities to develop achieve? We created foundation for general and detailed regulation enhanced equality and citizens’ plans, prescribed by the Law on participation – more concretely, better Planning and Construction or functioning of the kindergarten. provision of medical equipment that improved women’s health, identified EU PROGRES had offices in Novi as one of the priorities in the Pazar and Prokuplje and a sub-office National Strategy for the Improve- in Vranje. We believe this was a

41 Project In 2011, EU PROGRES was ranked among UNOPS’ four best projects in the world, having been shortlisted among 1,000 of the projects from more than 80 countries. This was a significant year acknowledgment for the Programme, its importance and quality, particularly having in mind that other three finalists worked in extremely difficult and challenging conditions - in Finalist Afghanistan, Honduras and South Sudan. AWARDS AND RECOGNITIONS

For its support to contribution to the local development and appreciation of efforts to improve living conditions in the South and South West Serbia, the European Partnership with Municipalities Programme – EU PROGRES received certificates and awards from 13 local self governments:

Leskovac Vranje Vlasotince Lebane Trgovište Bojnik Bujanovac Ivanjica Sjenica Nova Varoš Žitorađa Tutin Raška

Public institutions and civil society organisations also appreciated the Programme’s approach in development activities:

• Office for Sustainable Development of Underdeveloped Areas under the Minister without Portfolio

• Albanian National Minority Council

• Bosniak National Minority Council

• The Alliance of Roma Societies of Serbia

• Kindergartens “Veselo detinjstvo” Raška and “Habiba Stočević” Tutin

• Civil society organisations “Flores” Sjenica and Association of Persons with Paraplegia Vranje

• Organization Committees of International Folklore Festival Bosilegrad, Children’s Creativity Festival FEDES Prokuplje and Raška Spiritual Ceremony

• Public Library “Desanka Maksimović” Vlasotince

• Health Centre Kuršumlija

• Culture Centre “Vučje” Leskovac

• Basketball Club “BSK Junior” Bujanovac 43 UNOPS Serbia Project Centre Šumatovačka 59 11 000 Belgrade +381 (0)11 243 57 03

EU PROGRES office in Prokuplje Timočka 4 18 400 Prokuplje +381 (0)27 333 125

EU PROGRES office in Novi Pazar Kragujevačka 1 36 300 Novi Pazar +381 (0)20 337 300

EU PROGRES office in Vranje Kneza Miloša 52 17 500 Vranje +381 (0)17 405 544

www.euprogres.org

Programme Funded by EU Implementing Partner

The Programme was funded by the European Union, the Government of Switzerland and the Government of Serbia and was implemented by UNOPS, in partnership with 25 municipalities of the South and South West Serbia.