Citizens for Change #16

JANUARY - MARCH 2024

Civic engagement for better future

Welcome to the new issue of Civica Mobilitas’ magazine, Citizens for Change #16, the newsletter of a civil society support program backed by the Government of Switzerland, and the voice of the entire civil society sector.

After a break of almost a year, we are returning to the topics and initiatives that shape our society. This issue is filled with inspiring stories of civic engagement and citizen participation, dedicated to environmental challenges, women’s rights, education, and much more.

In a time of growing ecological crisis, Macedonia is facing serious challenges such as air pollution, inadequate waste management, and climate change. In this issue, you will read about the conference organized by the Institute of Communication Studies, where experts and activists discussed the importance of effective environmental communication and the role of citizens in conserving nature. Additionally, we have provided space for the Declaration on Active Environmental Protection and Climate Change Mitigation signed by mayors from municipalities across the country.

This year’s traditional March 8th march took place under the motto, “Women’s Rights Are Not Up for Negotiation.” Activists called for action to advance women’s healthcare, educational, and economic rights. They highlighted eight red lines describing the requested changes, including equal pay for equal work and a systematic solution to paid maternity leave access for female farmers.

The need for higher education to be integrated into the country’s economic processes was discussed during the thematic forum, “A Tight Knit: The Need for Networking between Education, Science, and an Innovation-Based Economy.” Experts and representatives from the academic and business sectors discussed the importance of networking in education, science, and an innovation-based economy.

This issue also highlights the initiative to network organizations that provide social services, workshops for high school students on peer violence, an action to monitor polling stations and their accessibility for people with disabilities, and more.

We believe we have provided diverse content that will meet our readers’ interests. These stories reflect the efforts of civil society organizations to improve our society and show that change is possible.

You, too, can contribute to upcoming issues of Citizens for Change. Write to us and send us information about your activities and achievements, interesting stories about your beneficiaries, or initiatives you have started. Let’s share the information, because it matters when it reaches those who need it. Have a pleasant reading!