Launch event of Regional Programme on Local Democracy in the Western Balkans 2 (ReLOaD2)

Daniela Gasparikova, UNDP Resident Representative for Montenegro

Dear Ms Srzentic,

Dear Mr. Spitz,

Dear representatives of the local governments and civil societies,

It gives me great pleasure to have the opportunity to announce the second phase of the ReLOaD – a joint effort of all Western Balkan countries in strengthening participatory democracy and the EU integration process by empowering civil society and youth to actively take part in the decision making process. ReLOaD is financed by the EU, implemented by UNDP in cooperation with municipalities and CSOs in Montenegro.

The success of the first phase of ReLOaD has surpassed our expectations with more than 7000 beneficiaries in Montenegro and 50 projects that improved lives of citizens in 5 Montenegrin municipalities. This is an excellent base to further build on, and I am delighted to witness the expansion of the programme and hope that you will take advantage of this colossal potential within ReLOaD2.

I will specially emphasise a few novelties we are introducing in the 2^nd phase, reflecting on the past lessons-learnt:

• We are introducing the concept of clusters of municipalities in order to encourage and promote transfer of experience and joint work not only between municipalities, but also between NGOs from neighbouring territories.   
• A special focus in this phase will be also on the implementation of youth initiatives, their engagement in society, and economic empowerment.

With programmes like these, UNDP, along with key partners, will enhance the capacities of local governments, CSOs, and youth and encourage engagement in productive partnerships in policy design and implementation. This goes along with stimulating the legal and financial environment towards more inclusive and community-based projects.

The LOD methodology introduced by ReLOaD creates responsive and accountable institutions, with clear rules and procedures for funding that are characterized by transparency and openness. When combined with channeling public funds into concrete services for citizens, it presents significant complementary support to local development.

We view the second phase as a great opportunity to continue with good practices set in the last four years, and apply them to other municipalities in Montenegro.

I want to thank the Delegation of the European Union to Montenegro for their support and guidance, as well as our partners from the Ministry of Public Administration, Digital Society and Media, Ministry of Education, Science, Culture and Sports, partner institutions and organizations, international organizations, representatives of local governments, and CSOs that are here with us today. This project is based on your needs and your work, and I am looking forward to the story we will be creating in the next four years.