INCLUDE: Inclusive Leadership and Democratic Participation of Persons with Disabilities (status: active)

The project “INCLUDE – Inclusive Leadership and Democratic Participation of Persons with Disabilities” is a 24-month European project, implemented within the framework of the European Union’s Citizens, Equality, Rights and Values (CERV) programme. The project is carried out through a partnership of seven organizations and institutions from six European countries—Austria, Portugal, Italy, Malta, Slovenia, and North Macedonia—with the participation of the Association Equality as a partner from North Macedonia.

Mission

The INCLUDE project aims to strengthen the active democratic participation, leadership, and advocacy of persons with disabilities by developing their capacities, overcoming barriers to participation, and fostering more inclusive decision-making processes.

Through education, mentorship, institutional cooperation, and the exchange of European experiences, the project contributes to creating equal opportunities for persons with disabilities to actively participate in social and political life and to assume leadership roles.

Activities

1. Research and consultations with stakeholders

Conducting focus groups, institutional consultations, and research activities to identify barriers, existing practices, and opportunities for greater participation of persons with disabilities in leadership and decision-making processes.

2. Development of a Handbook on Inclusive Representation

Development and testing of a practical handbook (Toolkit on Inclusive Representation) containing guidelines, tools, and good practices for institutions, local authorities, and civil society organizations.

3. Leadership Training and Mentoring Support

Organizing accessible training and mentoring activities to strengthen leadership skills, self-advocacy, self-confidence, and active civic participation among persons with disabilities.

4. Public events, awareness-raising, and institutional cooperation

Implementation of awareness-raising activities, public conferences, and cooperation with decision-makers, aimed at promoting inclusive leadership and greater representation of persons with disabilities in democratic processes.

Target audience

The project is primarily intended for persons with disabilities, with a special focus on women, youth, and individuals exposed to multiple forms of discrimination.

Additional target groups include municipalities, public institutions, policymakers, decision-makers, and civil society organizations, which play a significant role in developing and implementing inclusive policies and practices.

Donor

The project is funded by the European Union, through the Citizens, Equality, Rights and Values (CERV) programme.

Place of implementation – territorial scope

The project is being implemented in six European countries: Austria, Portugal, Italy, Malta, Slovenia, and North Macedonia.

The activities of the Association “Equality” are aimed at the inclusion of persons with disabilities, institutions, and civil society organizations from across Macedonia.