Supporting economic inclusion and sustainable opportunities for IDPs in Leskovac
For the past 17 months, ASB South East Europe and the City of Leskovac have been jointly implementing the project “Provision of Support to IDPs and Returnees in Return Process in Leskovac and Surrounding Regions”, with the financial support of the European Union.
The project focuses on improving the socio-economic position of internally displaced persons (IDPs) and returnees through economic empowerment measures, employment support, vocational education, and social inclusion activities. Since the beginning of implementation, numerous activities have been successfully carried out in order to strengthen the capacities of beneficiaries and create sustainable opportunities for employment and self-employment.
An opening conference and several information sessions for potential beneficiaries were organized, while public calls for business trainings, vocational education and training (VET) programmes, and income generation grants attracted significant interest from the local community. As part of the project activities, 54 beneficiaries successfully completed business trainings focused on entrepreneurship development, business planning, financial management, and developing sustainable business ideas. In addition, beneficiaries received mentoring support and individual guidance through the development of personal development plans tailored to their needs and capacities.
The implementation of income generation grants aimed at supporting small businesses and self-employment initiatives is currently ongoing, while the selection process for vocational trainings and additional economic support measures is still in progress.
Beyond direct beneficiary support, the project also achieved significant visibility through campaigns, public events, and media activities, reaching thousands of people across the region and raising awareness about the challenges faced by internally displaced persons and returnees. A special focus of the project is placed on supporting youth, women, and Roma internally displaced persons, with the goal of creating long-term opportunities for economic stability, social inclusion, and a more dignified life.
Through close cooperation between local institutions, civil society, and international partners, the project contributes to strengthening local support systems and promoting inclusive community development in southern Serbia. The project is implemented by ASB South East Europe in cooperation with the City of Leskovac, with financial support from the European Union.
