The EU Delegation on June 7 rewarded tangible results of EU-funded initiatives by civil society organizations (CSOs) at national, regional and local levels that have made a lasting and positive impact on the country’s democracy, economic development and social cohesion and promoted European values. Six national and local SCOs were awarded in the second European Civil Society Awards Gala, IPN reports.  

The Institute for Development and Social Initiative “Viitorul” won the good governance award for the project “Innovative improvements in public procurement system. “We work with institutions that regulate the procurement sector so as to have better and healthier policies in the field, including legal and regulatory framework on procurement. We work with civil society organizations for strengthening their capacities to monitor procurement, especially at the local level. We enable small organizations, monitors, active citizens to learn about the procurement process,” stated Diana Enache, “Viitorul” project coordinator.

The inclusive economic growth award went to the Cahul Regional Center for Socioeconomic Development for its contribution to reducing poverty, creating jobs and to economic emancipation.

The society award was conferred on the Keystone Moldova Association for defending the rights and interests of socially disadvantaged persons and persons with special needs.

There were also provided three special mentions.

Caritas Moldova won a mention for building confidence by developing concrete and viable solutions to problems faced by the citizens from both sides of the Nistru River.

The second mention was given for promoting gender equality and the emancipation of women. Owing to the Association of Police Women, the number of women in the police force increased, according to police officer from Chisinau Mariana Carabanovici.

The Association “Eco Răzeni” of Ialoveni district received a mention for change promotion through the best local project that contributed to the development of their community.