IRIS Network

IRIS Network- Strengthening Social Services in Southeast Europe

 

The IRIS Network is the only regional network in Southeast Europe dedicated to connecting civil society organizations that provide social services. Since its establishment in 2012 with support from the European Union, IRIS has been fostering collaboration, knowledge exchange, and capacity-building among CSOs working to improve social service delivery. Through strategic partnerships and advocacy efforts, the network strengthens the role of CSOs in shaping social policies and enhancing support systems for those in need.

 

IRIS unites more than 230 civil society organizations from Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo*, Montenegro, North Macedonia, and Serbia. Member organizations provide various social services to vulnerable groups, including persons with disabilities, children and youth at risk, women survivors of domestic violence, older adults, Roma and migrants, among others.

Mission, values and principles

 

The mission of the IRIS Network is to enhance the position and capacity of its members organizations providing social protection in communities across Southeast Europe. The network supports its members in advocacy and dialogue with authorities, serves as a source of learning, and facilitates partnership cooperation, funding opportunities, and networking.

 

Network promotes common values of :

  • solidarity,
  • equality,
  • participation,
  • social responsibility,
  • services oriented towards the personality of citizens – the dignity of every person.

 

Members of the Network adhere to the following principles in their actions and cooperation:

 

  • Contribution active social inclusion and social cohesion by promoting non-discrimination, gender equality, protection of health, high standard of living and quality of life;
  • Ensuring equal opportunities for all , thereby increasing the capacity of individuals to fully participate in society;
  • Respect for beneficiaries’ rights and the development of person-oriented services , as well as tailor-made solutions adapted to the specifics of the local situation and cultural traditions;
  • Promotion of open, transparent, democratic and inclusive management , fight against corruption and clientelism;
  • Promotion of volunteerism and involvement of volunteers in all activities of IRIS and its members;
  • Ensuring good working conditions, as well as a decent and inclusive work environment.

The IRIS Network offers support to its members in the following areas:

 

  • Advocacy and sector positioning – Assisting in advocacy efforts and positioning the sector in relation to decision-makers, donors, and the public, through policy analysis, lobbying, and coalition-building.
  • Licensing, accreditation, and service quality – Providing education, mentoring, and consultation to support licensing, reaccreditation, and the development of social services’ quality.
  • Organizational growth and social innovation – Promoting organizational development and the launch of social innovations through initiatives like the Regional Social Academy and other educational opportunities, mentoring, and consultations.
  • Access to funding and project management – Supporting access to donors and project financing, networking with potential partners and donors, mentoring in project and financial management, and directly raising funds to strengthen members’ capacities through the Network.
  • Financial support for innovation and growth – Offering grants to support innovation and growth within the network.
  • Public communication and campaigns – Assisting with joint campaigns and providing mentoring for effective public communication.

Structure and Partners:

 

The IRIS Network comprises national networks in each member country, functioning under the umbrella of the regional organization. Key partners supporting the IRIS Network include:

 

  • Initiative for Development and Cooperation in Serbia,
  • Center for Labour Rights in Albania,
  • LIR CD in Bosnia and Herzegovina,
  • Center for Independent Life in Kosovo*,
  • Community Development Institute in North Macedonia,
  • Alfa Center in Montenegro,
  • Arbeiter-Samariter-Bund Deutschland (Germany) – General secretariat.

 

For more information on current activities of this network, explore the IRIS Network website www.iris-see.eu