“Together for Iskar District: Participation, Dialogue and Solutions” is a project aimed at building a more active, informed and engaged local community. Its overall objective is to promote democratic culture and active civic participation in Iskar District by creating sustainable mechanisms for dialogue, cooperation and joint decision-making between citizens and the local authorities.
The specific objectives of the project are:
• To explore the public attitudes, needs and challenges of the residents of Iskar District and develop practical recommendations for addressing them.
• To establish a sustainable platform for dialogue between citizens and the local administration through the civic forums “The Voice of the District.”
• To strengthen the knowledge and skills of both citizens and municipal administration staff in the areas of human rights, democratic participation and good governance.
• To foster partnership and trust between civil society organizations and the local authorities.
What will we implement?
• Research and Analysis
The project will begin with a comprehensive assessment of the public attitudes and needs of the residents of Iskar District. Through a survey and focus group discussions involving citizens and representatives of the district administration, the most significant challenges facing the local community will be identified. The collected data will be analysed and used to develop practical recommendations for improving local governance, transparency and the quality of public services.
• Civic Forums – “The Voice of the District”
As part of the project, a series of civic forums entitled “The Voice of the District” will provide an open space for dialogue between residents and the local authorities. Participants will discuss key issues such as the quality of the living environment, public services, neighbourhood development and opportunities for greater citizen involvement in local decision-making processes.
• Training for Citizens and Local Administration
The project includes two specialised training programmes—one for citizens and one for representatives of the district administration. The citizens’ training will enhance participants’ knowledge and practical skills related to civic engagement, including the protection of citizens’ rights, participation in public consultations, submitting petitions and complaints, advocacy, and effective interaction with local authorities. The training for municipal staff will focus on improving communication with citizens, applying the principles of transparency, participation and open governance, and building sustainable partnerships with civil society organisations.
• Information and Public Awareness
• Throughout the implementation period, a wide range of communication and awareness-raising activities will be carried out to promote the project and inform citizens about upcoming events, opportunities for participation and the results achieved. Through publications, information materials, online communication and public events, the project will reach a broad audience and encourage the active involvement of the local community in all project activities.
The project “Together for Iskar District: Participation, Dialogue and Solutions” is implemented with the financial support of the Sofia Municipality – Europe 2026 Program by the Bulgarian School of Politics “Dimitry Panitza”, in partnership with Iskar District and “Elin Pelin – 1926” Community Centre, Busmantsi.
