Another round table in a row on Strengthening the System of Services in Employment of Marginalized Categories – “Joint Responsibility for the Welfare of the Community” was held in Bijeljina on April 22, 2021, organized by the Association of Citizens “Otaharin” and in partnership with the Association of Women “MAJA”, Women’s Initiative “COD Luna” Rudo, Women’s Association “Bolja Budućnost” Modriča.

The aim of the campaign is to strengthen the system for supporting self-employment of marginalized categories in rural communities, through the registration of commercial farms. The presence of various representatives opened the possibility for dialogue, obtaining accurate information and achieving future cooperation. The meeting discussed the possibilities for the registration of commercial farms and all the benefits that a farmer can achieve. Significant presence of representatives of the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Water Management from Bijeljina who shared with us information on the existing Rulebook on the conditions and manner of obtaining financial incentives for agricultural and rural development and how it can be useful for various farms. Participants also had suggestions for introducing an initiative for employment programs for marginalized groups.

The round table is part of a campaign aimed at farmers, local governments, NGOs, members of marginalized groups, employment bureaus and the media, all with the aim of creating employment opportunities for marginalized categories. Thus, this meeting was attended by representatives of local NGOs, public institutions and CARE International Sarajevo.

CARE International Sarajevo is implementing the project “Enhancing social protection by building capacities of the civil society organizations (CSOs) in Bosnia and Herzegovina” with the financial support of the Austrian Development Agency. One of the project goals is to support the implementation of advocacy campaigns initiated by NGOs, including the Otaharin Citizens’ Association.