Tim za socijalno uključivanje i smanjenje siromaštva

Michael Davenport, Head of the European Union Delegation to the Republic of Serbia, stated that the European Union was increasing the support for the civil society from IPA funds from 2 to 3.5% of the total amount. However, at the meeting, it was stressed that there is not enough money for the operation of civil society organizations in the region. The Serbian Prime Minister, Aleksandar Vučić highlighted the important role of civil society organizations in the development of the regional cooperation and relations, as well as in preparing the country for the EU membership.

At the Conference held by the European Movement International and the European Movement in Serbia, Davenport stated that the importance of the civil society had been stressed in the EU Enlargement Strategy, and added that citizens had the right to adequate public administration, but they should also influence the process of creating policies.

“Currently, we are supporting 50 regional networks that advocate public policies, with more than 250 civil society organizations from the EU candidate countries,” he said and added that the previous IPA cycle allocated EUR 150 million to the civil society.

Written by: S.V. and M.P., taken from www.euractiv.rs