HEKS/EPER Regional Meeting – Strengthening Social Inclusion in Eastern Europe 

HEKS/EPER Regional Meeting – Strengthening Social Inclusion in Eastern Europe 

Between February 24-28, 2025, we had the pleasure of participating in the HEKS/EPER Regional Meeting of the Social Inclusion and Equality Program in Niš, Serbia. The event brought together partners from Romania, Serbia, Kosovo, and Switzerland, providing a collaborative space for reflection on social and economic inclusion initiatives. 

The meeting aimed to facilitate cross-country collaboration, share best practices, and strengthen systemic approaches and strategies for advancing Roma inclusion in Eastern Europe and the West Balkans. Additionally, it focused on enhancing organizational and programmatic sustainability. 

Key objectives: 

• Creating a space for reflection on the development of interventions, with a focus on social and economic inclusion; 

• Strengthening the regional strategy for accessing available funding and improving collaboration between organizations; 

•  Analyzing and adapting to changes in the local and international environment for civil society organizations. 

Key moments: 

• Reflecting on progress – reviewing achievements and challenges from past interventions. 

• Exploring systemic changes at the local, national, and international levels, impacting civil society and intervention programs. 

• Developing specific strategies to shift power dynamics, improve funding flows, and increase community participation. 

The meeting was an excellent opportunity to strengthen regional partnerships and develop strategic directions that support vulnerable communities. We extend our gratitude to the organizers, facilitators, and all participants for their valuable contributions!