During the past week, meetings were held with the municipalities of Kumanovo, Gazi Baba and Kisela Voda. The occasion for the meetings was the presentation of the project “Active involvement and influence of civil society, state and non-state actors in P/SVE in North Macedonia” implemented by Open Gate/La Strada and Humanost in partnership with the municipalities.

The overall goal of the action is to build a cohesive and inclusive society that effectively prevents and fights against violent extremism and radicalization through the active involvement and influence of civil society, state and non-state actors.

Active work will be done on:

· Strengthening the cooperation between public institutions at the central/municipal level, the local business community, civil organizations and leaders by establishing a community platform for an enabling environment;

· Improving the capacities of local stakeholders for effective P/SNE, improving socioeconomic inclusion and services;

· Raising the awareness and motivation of the local community to reduce the risks of young people and vulnerable groups being attracted to violent extremism and organized crime.

We are glad that all 3 municipalities showed interest in being partners in the implementation of the activities.

The project is financially supported by the EU.