Promoting social inclusion in Serbia

Context

Despite economic growth in recent years, not all population groups in Serbia have equal opportunities to participate in social, economic and societal life.

The prospects of women and girls are limited by gender-based discrimination and traditional gender roles. In addition, minorities such as Roma communities and people with migration backgrounds face multiple discrimination.

Although there are relevant guidelines in place to promote social inclusion in the country, their implementation at the local level within municipalities is often inadequate. There is a shortage of programmes that effectively promote social and economic inclusion, address gender-specific needs and consider intersecting vulnerabilities such as migration backgrounds.

Objective

The social inclusion of women, girls and disadvantaged groups is improved.

Approach

Improving rights, resources and representation for and by women, in all their diversity, is at the heart of the project’s planning and implementation. The project operates in three key fields of action:

• It is supporting 20 selected Serbian municipalities in offering gender-sensitive social services. For example, a daycare facility for children with disabilities is being established in the municipality of Lebane; it also offers psychological support and careers guidance for parents.
• It is developing and implementing digital and analogue anti-discrimination measures to dismantle gender stereotypes, gender norms, prejudices and exclusion. For example, the project is implementing a nationwide campaign for the prevention of gender-based violence and femicide.
• It is supporting the improvement of existing guidelines for social inclusion. For example, the project is advising the partner ministry on reform of the outdated social protection strategy.

Last update: December 2024