OUR MISSION

The project ZZZ – Joint Green Advocacy for Environmental Protection aims to integrate ecological or “green” perspectives into professional social and youth work. It is one of the key perspectives for environmental protection and the establishment of an inclusive and democratic society for all. The project is coordinated by the Center for Youth Activism (CYA KRIK) and is implemented in partnership with the Association Center for Social Initiatives NADEZ-Skopje and the Association of Social Workers of Macedonia, Skopje, with the support of the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation through Civica Mobilis.

The direct and indirect target groups of this project include professionals from the social protection system and their beneficiaries, social service providers and their beneficiaries, as well as youth workers and young people.

Project Duration: 34 months

Total Budget: 17,359,984 MKD

Planned Activities:

• A.1: Action research “From diversity to justice - equal in the right to a healthy sustainable environment for all” at the level of 8 planning regions.
• A.2: A platform for green action.
• A.3.1: Three environmental protection trainings.
• A3.2: Local initiatives.
• A3.3: Local awareness-raising activities for the broader population regarding environmental protection.
• A4.1: Preparation of a stand-up performance for environmental protection.
• A.4.2: Networking events with stakeholders - GREEN NETWORKING CARAVAN.
• A.5: Launch a campaign to promote and raise visibility of the green perspective within social protection systems and youth activism.

Expected Results:

• R.1: Prepared national report with results, conclusions, recommendations, but also mapped needs at the local level for environmental protection.
• R.2: Prepared functional online platform to support environmental protection.
• R.3: Introduced concept of green social work as part of the program for the licensing of professionals in the social work system.
• R.4: Introduced concept of green youth work as part of the operation of youth centers
• R.5: Trained a total of 60 professional and youth workers from all eight planning regions at the national level to implement local initiatives in order to mobilize the community and protect the environment.
• R.6: Implemented 30 initiatives at the local level in all 8 planning regions with the aim of environmental protection.
• R.7: Improved cooperation through the partnership action between 60 representatives from the civil sector, local government and the private sector from all eight planning regions for recommendations and positive examples in dealing with climate change and the environment through an inclusive and democratic process.
• R.8: Increased awareness of all stakeholders, including decision makers for the formal inclusion of the eco (green) perspective in social protection and youth activism as an important factor for environmental sustainability and dealing with climate change.
• R.9: Increased social inclusion of people with disabilities and young people with fewer opportunities through inclusion in local workshops on the topic of environmental protection

Civica Mobilitas is a project by the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation aimed at supporting civil society in North Macedonia. The project is implemented by the Macedonian Center for International Cooperation (MCIC), NIRAS from Denmark, and FCG from Sweden. The program’s goal is to drive societal changes in North Macedonia led by a strong civil sector, active citizens, and effective collaboration with authorities. These efforts result in an expanded civic space, sustainable civil organizations, and transparent, accountable, and socially inclusive governance at both central and local levels.

The Center for Youth Activism “Krik” is a non-governmental, nonprofit organization founded by young people, led by young people, and working for and with young people. The name “Krik” (which means “shout” or “voice” in Macedonian) reflects the organization’s vision: to be the voice of young people who will be heard and drive changes in society. Krik aims to promote greater youth participation, youth activism, and encourage young individuals to be more involved in shaping policies at both local and national levels. The target group with whom Krik works includes all people (but primarily young individuals) who want to contribute and make a difference in the fields of ecology, critical thinking, communication skills, and well-being for socially excluded and marginalized groups in society.

The Association for Social Initiatives “Nadezh” is a non-governmental organization founded on August 28, 1997, as an initiative of employees from the project “Program for the Reintegration of Roma,” implemented by Caritasverband für das Bistum Essen e.V., Germany. The organization’s experience in supporting vulnerable groups and the need for continued engagement in this area motivated Nadezh to apply and develop further, working on multiple projects to become recognized.

The Association of Social Workers of Macedonia, Skopje has a mission to promote and affirm the profession of social workers through continuous development and adherence to professional standards and practices. Their work aims to lead, encourage, and advocate for positive social changes and justice.