The project focuses on strengthening the capacities, formalisation and long-term sustainability of the Balkan Rural Development Network (BRDN) as a regional platform that supports the socio-economic development of rural communities in the Western Balkans, with a particular focus on gender equality and the participation of rural women.
Funded by: We Effect
Implementation period: 01/03/2017 – 31/12/2020
Action budget: EUR 216,000.00, fully funded by We Effect
Project Description
The Rural Development Network of North Macedonia coordinates activities aimed at developing the capacities of BRDN and strengthening its role as a key regional actor in sustainable rural development. The project is financially supported by We Effect and provides three-year institutional support for improving governance, strategic planning and organisational development of BRDN and its member networks.
The activities include:
• Building and strengthening organisational capacities
• Exchange of good practices
• Support in the development and implementation of a strategy and two-year action plan
• Improving the performance, leadership and participation of BRDN in public policy-making
General Objectives
• To increase the capacities of the Rural Development Network of North Macedonia for a leadership role within BRDN and coordination of regional activities, with a focus on rural women.
• To formalise BRDN as a legal entity contributing to sustainable socio-economic development in rural areas of the Western Balkans.
• To build the organisational capacities of BRDN member networks through the exchange of good practices.
• To increase women’s participation in BRDN structures and improve advocacy for rural women.
Project Components and Results
Component 1: Formalisation of BRDN
• Formalised BRDN structures as a responsible and accountable organisation supporting rural stakeholders.
• Increased involvement of rural women in BRDN structures and decision-making processes.
Component 2: Capacity Building of Member Networks
• Improved operational and management capacities of BRDN.
• Improved institutional capacities of member networks based on previous assessments.
• Increased organisational efficiency and management capacities of the Rural Development Network of North Macedonia.
Component 3: Introduction of the LEADER Approach
• Strengthened capacities of BRDN member networks for the implementation of the LEADER approach.
• Improved capacities of existing and potential Local Action Groups (LAGs) as drivers of local rural economic development.
Project Beneficiaries
• BRDN member networks
• Rural stakeholders, rural women, LAGs and local organisations
• The wider rural community in the Western Balkans
More Information
Visit the official BRDN website.
