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Description
The proposed project aims to create a network of cooperation of at least 12 organizations, groups, and bodies, dealing with wildlife care in Greece. It will focus on the following problems:
- Reduced communication and lack of coordinated action
- Lack of a common operating framework and good practices
- Reduced opportunities in human resource management, especially in terms of attracting and managing volunteers.
- Blurred and inadequate institutional framework
Two workshops will be held during the project implementation with the following objectives:
- the design and creation of a communication channel between the organizations, bodies, and groups of the under establishment network.
- the preparation of a Cooperation Charter - Code of Conduct that will specify the minimum principles related to the care, welfare, and rehabilitation of the wild animals treated. These principles must rule the operation of all the members of the network in relation. All the members should commit to these principles by signing the Charter before the end of the project.
- the preparation of a Guide for Volunteer Engagement & Management that will help the organizations in finding volunteers, improving their management, and support their systematic training.
- the formulation of joint proposals towards the State authorities for institutional changes that will facilitate the operation of organizations and bodies involved in wildlife care and rehabilitation
In addition, tours will be organised in wildlife care facilities and releases of rehabilitated wild animals back to nature will take place. The immediate beneficiaries are the 14 organizations, bodies, and groups that will participate in the project, their members, staff, and volunteers and are estimated at about 1,000 people.
Summary of project results
The project aimed to address several critical issues and challenges that had long hindered the effectiveness and collaboration of wildlife care organizations in Greece. In particular,
- Reduced communication and lack of coordinated actions: There was no established platform or mechanism for these organizations to share knowledge, pose questions, or coordinate actions, leaving gaps in collective action and advocacy.
- Problematic Legal Frameworks: Outdated and restrictive legal regulations made it difficult for wildlife care centers to operate effectively. The lack of supportive policies added to the challenges of managing wildlife care.
- Isolation Among Organizations: Many wildlife care organizations operated in isolation due to limited communication and a lack of networking opportunities. This separation was exacerbated by a lack of trust and collaboration among the organizations.
- Volunteer Management Issues: Many organizations struggled with attracting, managing, and systematically training volunteers, which are crucial for their day-to-day operations.
- Financial Constraints: Decades of severe financial hardships left organizations struggling to secure adequate funding for their operations, hindering their ability to expand, collaborate, or innovate.
- Absence of Shared Ethical Standards: The lack of a unified Code of Ethics among wildlife care organizations resulted in inconsistencies in practices and made it difficult to establish common ground or set standards.
- Limited Exposure to International Practices: Without connections to international wildlife care centers, Greek organizations lacked access to advanced techniques, operational standards, and innovative approaches that could enhance their work.
By addressing these challenges, the project sought to build trust, establish a collaborative network, improve operational standards, and create a sustainable foundation for the long-term effectiveness of Greek wildlife care organizations.
The project undertook several key activities and produced significant outputs aimed at fostering collaboration and enhancing the capacity of wildlife care organizations in Greece. Specifically,
- A functional Network of Wildlife Care Organizations in which thirteen organizations from across Greece were successfully connected fostering collaboration and mutual support.
- Two workshops were organized, one in Paros (20 participants) and another in Athens (31 participants). These events brought together representatives from thirteen wildlife care organizations to discuss long-standing issues, share experiences, and address current challenges.
- Study Visits to European Care Centers where representatives from the network visited two prominent wildlife care centers: GREFA in Spain and Green Balkans in Bulgaria. These visits provided an opportunity to learn from international best practices, compare methods, and gain inspiration for improving local operations.
- Establishment of a Communication Channel. A Google Group was created for the network’s members, serving as a vital tool for communication, sharing information, coordinating joint actions, and addressing collective challenges.
- The network collaborated to create a comprehensive Code of Ethics. This document established shared principles and standards for operations, fostering trust and consistency among the member organizations.
- Development of Volunteer Management Guidelines. A guide was developed to help organizations attract, manage, and train volunteers more effectively, addressing a critical need for operational support and sustainability.
- Contribution to Policy Development. The network actively participated in consultations with the Hellenic Ministry of Environment and Energy (YPEN) during the revision of the legal framework for wildlife care centers. Their input influenced the final Joint Ministerial Decision on the establishment and operation of such centers.
- Creation of a Technical Guide for Raptor Cages. Based on the insights gained from the European visits, a guide was produced detailing construction techniques and specifications for raptor cages. This was the first document of its kind in Greece, offering standardized plans aligned with international standards.
The project delivered significant outcomes and created lasting impacts for wildlife care organizations, their stakeholders, and broader conservation efforts in Greece
- A functional and effective network of 13 wildlife care organizations across Greece was established.
- A Google Group communication platform was created, enabling continuous information sharing, joint decision-making, and collective advocacy.
- A Code of Ethics was developed and adopted by network members, providing a unified framework for operations.
- A guide for attracting, managing, and training volunteers was produced
- The network contributed to consultations on a new legal framework for wildlife care centers, influencing the Joint Ministerial Decision on their establishment and operation.
- A technical guide for building raptor cages was created, offering detailed plans based on international standards.
- Study visits to Spain (GREFA) and Bulgaria (Green Balkans) allowed organizations to learn advanced techniques and compare methods.
- Face-to-face workshops in order to discuss long-standing issues, share experiences, and address current challenges.
Beneficiaries of the Project
Wildlife Care Organizations, Volunteers, Policymakers and State authorities, wildlife, local and international conservation communities.
Overall Impact
The project strengthened the Greek wildlife care sector by fostering collaboration, improving operational standards, and influencing policy. It created a sustainable network and resources that will continue to benefit wildlife care organizations, volunteers, policymakers, and wildlife for years to come.