Today, the final training session within the project “Strengthening National and Local Systems to Support the Effective Socio-Economic Integration of Returnees in the Western Balkans” was held at the Training Center in Plandište. This project is funded by the European Union and implemented by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in cooperation with the Commissariat for Refugees and Migration of the Republic of Serbia.
The final training was attended by Dušica Popović, Assistant Commissioner, and Nenad Petković, UNDP Representative, who jointly emphasized the importance of further improving support for returnees.
The training aimed to strengthen the capacities of local commissioners and representatives of institutions directly involved in the reintegration process of returnees under the Readmission Agreement.
“The project, which has been ongoing since 2021, has so far included numerous activities, such as regional meetings, consultations with local commissioners, and the development of the Returnee Reintegration Program. Through initiatives like this, we are improving our services and building strong institutional mechanisms that will enable returnees to integrate into society sustainably,” said Dušica Popović at the opening of the training.
She also emphasized that successful reintegration is not just about immediate support but about ensuring long-term stability for returnees and their families. “These training sessions allow us to effectively address the challenges faced by local governments in Serbia that receive returnees,” she added, highlighting the importance of cooperation at all levels.
The project has covered municipalities across Serbia, from Novi Sad to Bujanovac, with a special focus on establishing Local Migration Councils and adopting Local Action Plans for the Integration of Returnees.
Over the next two days, training participants will exchange experiences and address key reintegration issues, aiming to further enhance support programs for returnees in local communities.
