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Description
The purpose of the project is to provide support for the civic participation activities of the residents of Northern Latgale and to promote cooperation between the NGO`s and active communities.
The project promoter has carried out a survey of Latgale NGO`s to identify the needs of the non-governmental sector and communities, and the results show that there is often a lack of cooperation with local governments. The main reasons are the lack of experience and knowledge, the lack of qualified and permanent specialists, the lack of knowledge of the methods of involvement of citizens as members and volunteers in NGO`s etc.
The project promoter has planned the establishment of a common platform for the Northern Latgale NGO`s ensuring their co-operation; initiatives of Northern Latgale inhabitants "Get to know yourself in Northern Latgale!"; a cycle of civic education activities, information campaigns and training on the culture of democracy. A series of good practice examples will provide an opportunity to learn about different types of cooperation between municipalities and NGOs, joint activities, initiatives.
The beneficiaries will be residents of local communities, especially young people who will have the opportunity to participate in the development of their places of residence, become more actively involved in decision-making and improve knowledge about development planning and implementation processes. However, benefits of the municipality will be better understanding of the needs of the residents and greater public confidence in the municipality.
Summary of project results
The challenges identified by the project promoter in the Latgale region, particularly in North Latgale, were as follows:
Lack of specific collaboration formats, such as forums, discussions, workshops, and campaigns, to create long-term positive changes in democratic culture and human rights.
Insufficient national and international collaboration and structured dialogue activities between NGOs and public/private institutions to improve understanding of democracy, civic education, and advocacy.
Absence of a unified platform and mechanisms for active citizens, disadvantaged groups, and NGOs to participate effectively in decision-making processes and activities within municipal and state institutions.
Limited regional cooperation for exchanging knowledge and experiences in civil society, as well as inadequate understanding and promotion of volunteer work.
Insufficient education for politicians, public administration decision-makers, and NGOs on the importance of civic participation.
Lack of tools and processes to enable the participation of vulnerable groups in civic activities and decision-making processes, including training and mentoring.
Low engagement of residents in civic activities, resulting in passive attitudes and insufficient attention from municipal institutions to citizen opinions.
Absence of a unified platform for North Latgale NGOs to foster quality dialogue with municipalities, exacerbated by the territorial-administrative reform merging four municipalities into Balvi municipality, which risked weakening the connection between active residents and local authorities.
Creation and operation of the North Latgale NGO platform
A unified NGO platform was established to enhance collaboration and dialogue with municipalities in North Latgale. A survey was conducted to assess NGO activities and readiness to participate, and a joint strategy for 2021–2025 was developed, defining priorities, actions, and expected results. Regular meetings were held with residents and local governments to identify needs, and platform resources were enhanced through various projects. Members participated in creating local action strategies, fostering stronger cooperation among NGOs, residents, and municipalities.Informative campaigns “Democracy and culture”
Six campaigns were conducted across the region to educate and engage residents on democratic principles, featuring information tents, discussions, and interactive games. Campaigns were held in Tilža, Balvi (twice), Viļaka, Rugāji, and Briežuciems, with a total of 307 participants. The campaigns increased public awareness of democracy and inspired active community involvement.Civic initiatives “Discover yourself in North Latgale!”
Nine events were organized in major settlements to activate residents and foster collaboration among NGOs, municipalities, and communities. Discussions addressed local needs and solutions, while initiatives like environmental improvements (e.g., photo frames, signage, benches, and greenery) were implemented. These events strengthened civic dialogue and highlighted the potential of resident-driven projects for community development.Training cycle “About democracy” (41 hours)
A training program involving 222 participants covered topics such as democratic culture, civic participation, leadership, communication skills, and digital tools. Sessions were conducted both online and in person, involving participants from various sectors. The training enhanced participants'' confidence, knowledge, and ability to engage in civic and social initiatives.Annual NGO recognition events “Sprēslīca”
Three events showcased and celebrated the work of North Latgale NGOs, raising their visibility and promoting collaboration with municipalities and residents. The events highlighted the significant role of NGOs in regional development, gaining recognition at the national level and inspiring interest from other organizations and communities.
The project laid a solid foundation for improving mutual understanding between municipalities and non-governmental organizations (NGOs), enhancing their capacity to influence decision-making processes. It fostered partnerships between civic organizations and public institutions, creating a more collaborative environment. The project also supported NGOs in achieving their goals by facilitating shared activities, efficient information exchange, and providing insights on funding and collaboration opportunities.
The number of residents engaged in decision-making processes grew significantly, with 517 unique individuals participating in such activities, out of a total of 918 local community members involved throughout the project. These initiatives demonstrated how even small-scale actions could serve as practical examples of civic participation and dialogue, focusing on locally relevant issues that were discussed and acted upon by communities and municipalities together.
Furthermore, the share of residents participating in civic activities also increased. A total of 222 individuals engaged in civic education events, while others took part in campaigns and workshops. Such efforts strengthened citizens'' belief in their ability to influence municipal decisions, boosted their self-confidence, and showcased the value of community-driven projects.
Through strategic efforts like recognition events, the project highlighted the crucial role of the NGO sector in regional development. It gained visibility and increased engagement, inspiring similar initiatives across Latvia. As a result, community members, NGOs, and municipal leaders recognized the importance of collaboration and the significant impact of civic involvement in shaping local development and policy.