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STAR Network Macedonia
The goal of this program is to strengthen existing informal multi-sectoral networks among women. Sharing advocacy techniques, facilitating cross-sectoral discussion and supporting local action strategies are the main ways that World Learning STAR Network promotes women's political and economic empowerment in Macedonia.
ANTIKO Takes Action for Peace ANTIKO, a women's multiethnic network in Macedonia, promotes women's leadership by working to create a culture of peace throughout Macedonia. Below is an excerpt from an interview with ANTIKO, conducted by Aferdita Imeri. "In Macedonia, there is a prevalent perception that being "different" is the same as being an enemy. Communities are completely separated with little, if any, communication. In this respect, ANTIKO is a pilot project where differences between people are being seen as a positive strength, not a threat." Click here for the full interview with ANTIKO by Aferdita Imeri. Economic Issue Forums As a need identified by a Regional Advisory Board member, and as a tool for addressing women's economic concerns, the first local economic issue forum was organized in Sveti Nikole, a town undergoing a sharp and sudden economic decline and unemployment. In 1992, Sveti Nikole had the highest average salary in Macedonia, and every third citizen was employed. However, today this city of 14,000 inhabitants has 5,388 unemployed, of whom 2,425 are women. The main strength of the forum was that the women from Sveti Nikole took the initiative to organize it. A sign of hope for them was the stated openness of the local employment agency to provide additional job training and counseling to unemployed women. Young Women's Leadership Two intensive training sessions have been organized to cover topics including: empowering young women to take active roles in NGOs, trade unions, and political parties; encouraging women to promote new, more democratic, multi-ethnic leadership styles; and demonstrating how to build self-confidence and competence. The sessions will introduce young women leaders from all four sectors of society to the concept of advocacy and a new style of leadership. Despite high political tensions and violence, the first workshop for young leaders took place in Skopje from March 30-April 1, 2001. It brought together twenty-one young women from nongovernmental organizations, political parties, the business sector and media. The group was also ethnically and regionally diverse, as women came from all parts of Macedonia -- Skopje, Krushevo, Kichevo, Debar, Gostivar and Bitola. Aleksandra Petric, a coordinator of the B-H Youth Network intoduced the concept of women's leadership and team-building, while Biljana and Elisaveta Bejkova, from Macedonia, facilitated the exploration of gender stereotypes. The workshop was a great success and an example of cooperation across ethnic, sectoral and regional divides in times of political crisis. Financial Management Training School The Financial Management Training School was based on a successful experience in Kosovo, and is crucial due to a large number of newly established NGOs, women's sections within trade unions and fewer donors present in country. The intensive training in financial management helps to upgrade managerial skills, budgeting, fundraising, reporting and overall accountabiltiy of Macedonian women's organizations. |
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