The Macedonian Government Unit for Cooperation with NGOs published the Concept for the Strategy of the Government for Cooperation with the Civil Sector (2012-2017) and it is now open for consultation.
The aim of the Strategy is to proceed with the promotion, support and improvement of the partnership relations between the Government of the Republic of Macedonia and the civil society, i.e. associations and foundations, in the function of:
- overall further development of the Macedonian society and its inclusion in the European Union and
- fulfilling the needs of citizens and community for better life and future.
The Concept of the Strategy lists the following priority areas for the development of the cooperation:
- Developed and sustainable civil society
- Active participation in defining policies, legislation and European integration
- Economic and social development and cohesion
- Strengthened civil activism and support from the community
- Strengthened institutional framework and practices of cooperation.
ECNL serves as Senior Short-Term Expert as part of the team which is preparing the document and is leading the process of its adoption. The Strategy is expected to be adopted in first months of 2012.
The development of the Strategy is supported through the project "Technical Assistance to the Unit for the Cooperation with NGOs in the General Secretariat", implemented by GOPA World Consultants, and supported by the European Union. The first Strategy of the Government for Cooperation with the Civil Sector (2007-2011) was adopted in 2011, and ECNL was part of the team developing this document as well.