Within the framework of the European Union funded Regional Programme on Local Democracy in the Western Balkans 3 (ReLOaD3), financial and grant agreement for 21 projects were signed today with Gllogoc/Glogovac, Gjakovë/Đakovica, Istog/Istok, Malishevë/Mališevo and Vushtrri/Vučitrn and 21 CSO valued at 274,875 Euros. 
These projects will address local priorities in areas such as:
•     Provision of social services for vulnerable groups
•     Employment, social inclusion and gender equality
•     Environmental protection and tourism development
•     Human rights promotion and
•     Cultural heritage protection
This milestone reflects the EU’s commitment to strengthening participatory democracy and advancing the EU integration process in the Western Balkans by empowering civil society and youth to actively engage in decision‑making.
The agreements signed mark the beginning of activities under the first public call for CSO project proposals launched in early 2026. Following training and mentoring sessions to strengthen CSO capacities, 73 proposals were submitted, of which 21 projects were selected through a competitive evaluation process.
ReLOaD3 builds on the success of ReLOaD1 and ReLOaD2 (2017–2024), which supported partnerships between 11 municipalities and CSOs, benefiting nearly 15,000 people through improved local services. Ninety‑nine CSO projects addressed diverse community needs, from creating safe spaces for children with disabilities and empowering women entrepreneurs, to promoting eco‑tourism and cultural heritage.
The current phase continues to institutionalize cooperation between municipalities and CSOs, ensuring transparent and development‑oriented public funding for civil society initiatives. The Programme promotes structured dialogue, trust, and collaboration between local governments and CSOs, fostering inclusive democratic processes and stronger service delivery.
By fostering cooperation between municipalities and CSOs, ReLOaD3 contributes to more inclusive, accountable and resilient communities.

The ReLOaD3 project is funded by the European Union and implemented by UNDP in partnership with local municipalities and civil society organizations across the Western Balkans.

For more information, please contact:

Fiona Haxhiislami, UNDP Communication Associate
Phone: (038) 249 066 ext. 410; mobile: 049 788 269; e-mail: Fiona.haxhiislami@undp.org

Danijela Mitić, UNDP Communications Associate
Phone: (038) 249 066 ext. 412; mobile: 049 720 824; e-mail: danijela.mitic@undp.org
 

Press release in Albanian 

Press release in Serbian