The "Local Development" Programme Overview: EEA and Norway Grants have brought change and hope to over 1,000 vulnerable communities

The closing conference of the "Local Development" Programme, funded by the EEA and Norway Grants 2014-2021 and implemented by the Romanian Social Development Fund (FRDS) as the Programme Operator, was held on November 27-28, 2024, in Sinaia, Prahova County. Over two days, more than 100 participants – representatives of authorities, experts, NGOs, and beneficiaries – celebrated the achievements of the Programme, which has had a clear impact in over 1,000 communities across Romania. Through collaboration, innovation, and engagement, the "Local Development" Programme demonstrated that change is possible even in the most vulnerable communities. The financial support provided by the EEA and Norway Grants created key opportunities for more inclusive communities and better access to quality services, addressing the expressed needs of people from all regions of Romania.

A Programme focused on people

The opening session featured a series of guests who emphasized the complexity and diversity of the Programme, directly contributing to local development, upholding human dignity, and creating opportunities to overcome at-risk situations. Among the speakers were Mihaela Peter, FRDS Executive Director, representatives of donors and partners such as the Norwegian Embassy in Bucharest, the Financial Mechanism Office, the Council of Europe, the Ministry of Investments and European Projects (as the National Focal Point), and the Ministry of Education.

With the Programme`s central goal of putting people first by reducing social and economic disparities and promoting social inclusion, the conference`s working sessions highlighted professionals whose work within the projects had a direct impact on beneficiaries. The event provided participants the opportunity to discover the stories behind successful projects. Beneficiaries and professionals from areas such as Bacău, Arad, Târgu-Mureș, Hârșova, Iași, and Budila shared their experiences. From supporting victims of domestic violence to interventions that improved Roma inclusion and empowerment or access to education and healthcare in disadvantaged communities, the speakers presented concrete examples of their efforts` impact, promoting innovation, partnership, community consultation, and engagement, as well as the role of local authorities and civil society.

Participants had the opportunity to engage in cultural exchanges, develop interpersonal connections, and visit an exhibition showcasing items created within funded projects. The works of children, youth, and adults reflected the direct impact of the interventions, showcasing the talents and efforts of local communities.

The final working session focused on successful partnerships developed with international partners such as the Norwegian Association of Local and Regional Authorities (KS), a Programme partner, the Council of Europe, the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), the European Wergeland Centre, and the Municipality of Bergen, Norway.

On the second day, participants visited two projects funded through the Programme: the "S.M.A.R.T." Day Centre in Ploiești, supported by The Salvation Army Romania, and the Inclusive Education Centre in Tunari, established and supported by the Tunari Municipality, Ilfov County, as the project promoter.

"We are proud to be part of an initiative that changes lives and contributes to a more equitable and inclusive society. Access to quality services and respect for human dignity are the cornerstones of this Programme, and the results are impressive", emphasized Carmen Andresoi, Executive Director of FDP – Protagonists in Education, project promoter of "Impact Ludești."

"Attending the closing conference of the `Local Development` Programme gave us an opportunity to reflect on our achievements. We were honored to present the products created within the project, which were greatly appreciated. This event inspired us to continue supporting sustainable development and strengthening vulnerable communities", noted Andra Berce, Marghita Municipality, Bihor County, project promoter of "Local Development for Disadvantaged Communities in Bihor County."

The "Local Development" Programme – Impressive National Results

The "Local Development" Programme demonstrated that strategic investments, complemented by grassroots interventions, can fundamentally change the lives of people in vulnerable communities. Launched in 2018, the Programme funded 111 projects in over 1,000 localities across the country, with a total budget of €86 million allocated to projects. These interventions brought significant changes: 18,214 members of the Roma community benefited from services such as access to education, healthcare, housing, and employment opportunities.

Additionally, 16,910 children and young people at risk were supported to prevent school dropout. Over 3,956 teachers were trained to work inclusively with children. More than 24,290 individuals received personalized social services, and 26,302 people participated in awareness campaigns on social inclusion, human rights, and respect for multiculturalism. Furthermore, 44 social facilities were built or rehabilitated, 76 social housing units were purchased, and over 1,195 homes were refurbished or modernized.

The "Local Development" Programme encouraged international cooperation by collaborating with partners from Norway, Iceland, and international organizations, placing significant emphasis on fostering bilateral relations and sharing best practices. This was achieved through partnerships with entities from donor states within projects (18 projects were developed in partnership) and through cross-cutting bilateral activities organized by the Programme Operator for the benefit of experts in the Programme`s focus areas (over 560 participants from Romania benefited from international experience exchanges).

Details about the "Local Development" Programme are available at www.dezvoltare-locala.frds.ro and on the Programme`s Facebook page.