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Description
Organisational grant will contribute to :
1. Stability, sustainability and development - Investing in staff competencies for a) development of social innovations for inclusion of vulnerable groups, b) the application of new models of citizen participation and c) new digital tools to increase capacities for effective program implementation and achievement of results. The support will ensure continuation of program activities, retention of people in the organization and the opportunity to receive new young people for further development in accordance with values, vision and mission.
2. Targeted strategic goals are to:
- apply new models of participatory community development
- establish regional Demo Academy - platform for learning and networking of CSOs and activists from Croatia, Serbia and Bosnia and Herzegovina
- expansion of civil education according to a clear strategy
- development of new capacity building program for good governance and women''s leadership available to CSOs
- ensured sustainability of the Social Studio as a place of support and empowerment of vulnerable groups.
3. Target groups are general public, CSOs, women, children and young people including those in disadvantaged position. Our work will a) increase opportunities for the inclusion and equal participation of citizens, especially the vulnerable; b) contribute to quality of programs and activities and c) to strengthen democratic engagement and to restore of trust and actions based on the principles of inclusivity, solidarity, dialogue, and equal opportunities.
4. Increasing influence - Development of digital competencies and tools will ensure effective communication with citizens and a greater outreach to the community. An improved system for monitoring and measuring impact will be used to improve actions and advocacy including expansion of supporters among citizens, CSOs and institutions, and better understanding of the role of CSOs in society.
Summary of project results
In a landscape shaped by frequent crises, shifting societal needs, and emerging trends, our organization’s strategy focuses on fostering resilience, inclusivity, and democratic engagement. This report delves into the challenges and opportunities shaping the future of civil society and outlines targeted interventions to address pressing issues.
Recent developments highlight significant hurdles that require a robust and flexible approach:
Impact of Frequent Crises: The increasing frequency of crises underscores the need for greater adaptability and resilience among civil society organizations (CSOs) to provide effective responses.
Democratic Backsliding and Shrinking Civic Space: A decline in democratic culture, limited civic engagement, and weak synergies among local CSOs hinder collective action. Furthermore, insufficient capacities to implement quality volunteer programs exacerbate the issue (CERANEO).
Erosion of Trust: Growing distrust in politics, leadership, institutions, and even civil society itself limits effective societal engagement (IDIZ).
Youth Disengagement: Low trust among youth in systemic structures and a lack of education on democracy result in minimal participation in civic and political life (IDIZ).
Inequalities and Regional Disparities: Rising inequalities, challenges faced by vulnerable groups, and significant regional imbalances in the realization of rights—particularly in Slavonia and Baranja—create barriers to equitable development. For instance, 23.9% of the population is at risk of poverty or exclusion, compounded by an influx of refugees and economic migrants (KLJP).
Deepening Divisions: Widening gaps across beliefs, generations, ethnicities, and cultural groups threaten social cohesion.
Target Groups
These challenges primarily affect diverse populations, presenting opportunities for targeted interventions:
Primary Groups: Citizens, children, youth, marginalized and vulnerable populations, educators, volunteer coordinators, and other relevant professionals.
Organizations and Institutions: CSOs, non-profits, schools, universities, volunteer organizers, local volunteer centers, public administration bodies, and the private sector.
Secondary Groups: Media outlets, international CSOs, and strategic partners.
Strategic Focus
Civil engagement and a robust civil society are essential for revitalizing democracy, rebuilding trust, and fostering community resilience. Our strategy prioritizes the following areas:
Civic Education: Educating children and youth on democracy to cultivate informed, engaged citizens.
Enhanced Civic Engagement: Promoting democratic values through participatory education, high-quality volunteering opportunities, and participative societal development models.
Strengthening CSO Capacities: Bolstering the democratic, synergistic potential and operational capacities of CSOs.
Empowering Vulnerable Groups: Addressing the needs of marginalized communities by fostering inclusion and creating equal opportunities.
Inclusive Community Development: Building diverse, inclusive communities that support equitable growth.
Collaborative Networks: Strengthening solidarity through collaborative networks of support and mutual aid.
DKolektiv has made significant strides in 2023 and 2024, working to foster a culture of active citizenship, social inclusion, and democratic engagement across Croatia. Through a range of initiatives, the organization has strengthened community ties, enhanced civic participation, and provided critical support to vulnerable groups. Below is a summary of key activities and outcomes achieved during this period.
Strengthening Civic Engagement Through Media and Dialogue
In 2023, DKolektiv launched the DKolektiv PoDcast, which featured six episodes, reaching a total of 1,746 listeners. The podcast addresses topics such as media literacy, EU integration, and youth participation, contributing to informed discussions on current social and political issues. Additionally, two significant exhibitions, Faces of DAtelje and Perspective of Generations, were organized to highlight civic activism and foster intergenerational dialogue.
Promoting Collaboration and Knowledge Sharing
DKolektiv facilitated numerous forums, roundtables, and consultations with civil society organizations (CSOs), educational institutions, and local citizens. These events focused on topics like human rights, gender equality, and the importance of active citizenship. Regular surveys and focus group discussions were conducted to tailor programs to the evolving needs of the community, ensuring relevant and impactful outcomes.
Youth Empowerment and International Collaboration
A core component of DKolektiv’s work has been its focus on empowering youth. Through the implementation of youth simulation programs such as the European Parliament simulation, young participants gained valuable skills in democratic processes and leadership. DKolektiv’s Erasmus+ accreditation in 2023 further facilitated international exchanges and capacity-building opportunities, enriching local youth initiatives with European best practices.
In rural communities, such as Borovo and Erdut, DKolektiv successfully introduced the Mobile Atelier program, which provided mentorship to youth, helping them design and implement local initiatives. This experience not only enhanced their leadership skills but also increased their engagement with positive social change.
Social Atelier: A Hub for Inclusivity and Solidarity
One of the standout achievements of DKolektiv is the Social Atelier, a community center designed to foster inclusion, civic engagement, and mutual support. Since its opening, the Atelier has served over 962 users, including 261 individuals from vulnerable groups. The center hosts a variety of programs, including support groups for women, educational activities for youth, cultural events, and intergenerational solidarity projects.
International recognition of the Atelier’s impact includes the Sozial Marie Award for Social Innovation and the Excellence in Cities Award, highlighting its role as a key player in promoting social inclusion and community resilience.
Volunteerism and Social Impact
Through initiatives like the Volonteka e-platform, DKolektiv has successfully linked volunteers with relevant causes, increasing engagement in local communities. In partnership with educational institutions, DKolektiv also introduced volunteering as a curriculum component, fostering a culture of civic responsibility among youth.
In addition, the organization supported the professionalization of volunteering by developing and implementing new standards and conducting research on the social impact of volunteer activities.
Supporting Civil Society Development and Governance
DKolektiv’s ongoing commitment to strengthening civil society was evident in its work with 79 local organizations in three counties. Through a series of meetings and dialogues, the organization identified key challenges and opportunities for development. The If We Weren’t Here… campaign, which focused on raising awareness about the contributions of civil society to community development, successfully engaged over 70 participants, reaching a broad audience across social media platforms.
In terms of capacity building, DKolektiv trained over 170 representatives of CSOs, enhancing their management and digital skills. Notably, the development of the CSO Strategic Compass curriculum, aimed at helping organizations address contemporary challenges, will be further piloted and refined in the coming year.
Addressing Social Inequality and Promoting Social Justice
As part of its advocacy efforts, DKolektiv raised awareness of issues related to social inequality, poverty, and social justice. Key initiatives included the production of a podcast on child poverty and a series of events such as the Echoes of Social Europe roundtable, where experts and activists discussed solutions to inequality in Croatia. These activities provided valuable insights and laid the foundation for future advocacy strategies aimed at addressing social justice issues, particularly among children and youth.
Support for Vulnerable Groups
Throughout the reporting period, DKolektiv continued to provide critical support to vulnerable groups, including refugees, women from minority backgrounds, and the elderly. Activities such as group support for Ukrainian refugees, structured dialogues for migrant women, and educational workshops for low-income children were central to the organization’s mission to empower marginalized individuals and promote community integration.
Balancing Stability, Innovation, and Community Impact
DKolektiv has effectively balanced stability and continuity with innovation and development, significantly enhancing the quality of its programs and their impact on the community. By introducing targeted interventions, fostering collaboration, and promoting active citizenship, the organization has made substantial strides in addressing the needs of vulnerable groups, reducing isolation, and bridging generational gaps.
Reducing Isolation Among Youth
Support for Youth in Rural Areas: Through tailored educational and community action programs, DKolektiv has successfully boosted the motivation and confidence of young people in rural areas. These initiatives have encouraged greater participation in local activities, empowering youth to take an active role in their communities.
International Project on Youth Loneliness: DKolektiv conducted extensive research to address youth loneliness, highlighting the positive role of volunteering in reducing social isolation. As a result, a best-practices manual was developed, alongside a comprehensive capacity-building guide for organizations. This resource will be officially released in late 2024. Additionally, DKolektiv launched a community campaign to raise awareness about the impact of loneliness on youth, furthering its advocacy on this critical issue.
Bridging the Intergenerational Gap
Digital Competency for Seniors: DKolektiv’s workshops on digital literacy have proven successful, with 60% of participants now actively using digital platforms, enhancing their societal connections and reducing digital isolation.
Intergenerational Activities: Programs like the Festival of Intergenerational Solidarity and the Perspective of Generations: Citizens of Osijek exhibit have facilitated understanding and collaboration between younger and older generations. Involvement of local schools and organizations has played a pivotal role in fostering these intergenerational connections.
Empowering Vulnerable Groups
Social Atelier: DKolektiv’s Social Atelier has become a vital safe space for vulnerable groups, providing a platform for connection, acceptance, and empowerment. This initiative has helped individuals from marginalized communities feel valued and supported.
Support Groups: DKolektiv has organized various programs for women, young fathers, and refugees, creating supportive spaces for experience-sharing, personal development, and empowerment.
Strengthening Civic Competencies
Education and Support for Youth: DKolektiv has offered workshops to help young people understand pressing social issues, develop personal resources, and engage in meaningful civic activities. These programs have contributed to the growth of active, informed citizens.
Volunteer and Student Engagement: The organization has provided numerous opportunities for volunteers and students to participate in its activities, thereby enhancing their civic, social, and organizational skills. These engagements have played a key role in fostering leadership and responsibility among the youth.
Teacher Support: Through initiatives like the Teachers'' Forum, DKolektiv has supported educators in adopting innovative methods for teaching civic education. This includes tools focused on gender equality, human rights, and other critical social issues. The Prava Aplikacija project further enhanced this initiative by introducing a mobile application and teaching resources designed to bolster human rights education in schools.
Revitalizing Civil Society
Networking and Knowledge Exchange: DKolektiv has created a robust network of civil society organizations (CSOs), fostering an environment for dialogue, mutual support, and collective learning. This collaboration has increased the impact of CSOs in the community, facilitating joint efforts to address local challenges.
Promoting Belonging and Inclusion
Personal Development: Program participants have reported stronger feelings of community belonging and social inclusion, underlining the effectiveness of DKolektiv’s initiatives in promoting a more inclusive society.
Shared Community Spaces: The establishment of a new community space has provided a venue for collaboration, learning, and social action. This space promotes core values such as solidarity, inclusivity, freedom, and human rights, further cementing DKolektiv’s commitment to social justice and collective well-being.