The Youth with Disabilities Forum actively participated in focus groups organized as part of the “Empowered” regional project, in cooperation with IDC – Initiative for Development and Cooperation. The focus groups were held in Leskovac, Novi Pazar, and Dimitrovgrad during October 2025, with the aim of improving the inclusion of persons with disabilities at the local level.

The “Empowered” project aims to strengthen the inclusion of persons with disabilities in the Western Balkans region through regional cooperation, exchange of best practices, and the development of community-based support systems. The project is implemented by the German organization Arbeiter Samariter Bund Deutschland e.V, with financial support from the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ).

In Leskovac, on October 13, discussions focused on current challenges in accessing rights and services, as well as the development of local inclusion plans. Participants emphasized the importance of cross-sectoral cooperation and the sharing of good practices from different communities.

Two days later, in Novi Pazar, the focus shifted to analyzing the existing social protection system. Participants identified key challenges in service provision for persons with disabilities, particularly highlighting the need to revise the local regulatory framework.

The series of meetings concluded in Dimitrovgrad, where on October 17 a dialogue was held on innovative models of social services. Special emphasis was placed on the development and licensing of local service providers, as well as strengthening the connection between institutions and the community.

The Youth with Disabilities Forum made a significant contribution to all meetings, highlighting the importance of actively involving persons with disabilities in decision-making processes and in shaping local policies that improve their quality of life.