Let's meet our neighbour!

Let's meet our neighbour!

This booklet is based on the project Contacts for the Common future Let s meet our neighbour 2012 - bilateral initiative for enhancing sustainability of the cooperation between NGOs from Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia and Greece organized by Youth Alliance Krusevo and UNESCO Youth Club of Thessaloniki in partnership with Friedrich Ebert Foundation, Office Skopje. This project was supported by the Balkan Trust for Democracy, a project of The German Marshall Fund of the United States. Published in March, 2013 Coordination, writing & editing: Youth Alliance Krusevo str. Mise Eftim 1a, 7550 Krusevo www.youthalliance.org.mk krusevoyouth@on.net.mk Reproduction and use for non-commercial purposes is permitted provided the source www.c4cf.org is mentioned and c4cf@youthalliance.org.mk is notified.

Introduction

Introduction Why this booklet? Since 2010 through the initiative Contacts for the Common Future which is aiming at enhancing sustainability of the civil society cooperation between the two neighbouring countries Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia and Greece in the youth field has brought together people and organizations that had never collaborated before. This is of special importance to the institutions and practitioners that aim at contributing to the cross border cooperation and dialogue, addressing common issues of democratic development, and building networks among governments, NGOs, civic initiatives, and other institutions working to improve cooperation between the two neighbouring countries and in the region in general in the context of the Euro-Atlantic integration of SEE and Neighbourhood Policy. The C4CF initiative has contributed widely to the success of this cooperation and action, involving both practitioners in the field of youth and competent institutions: in terms of support mechanisms, sustainable partnerships, increased quantity and quality of cross border partnerships and projects, valorisation and dissemination of results and good practices and, last but not least, strengthening of the cooperation among institutions involved. This publication aims at presenting the process and the achievements within the C4CF 2012 Let s meet our neighbour as a good practice of cooperation, which can serve as a model to actors working in institutions or in organisations active in the youth field and in the good neighbourly cooperation. The promoters of the C4CF Let s meet our neighbour (institutions and partners) hope that the following pages might be also an inspiring tool for actions bringing long term changes! The C4CF Team! [3]

Table of contents [ 1 ] page 5 C4CF Let s meet our neighbour at a Glance! [ 3 ] page 13 Exploring for a Common Future [ 5 ] [ 2 ] page 9 Preparatory Seminar [ 4 ] page 29 Exploring for a Common Future [ 6 ] page 45 Sharing for a Common Future page 53 Sharing for a Common Future Phase II [ 7 ] page 55 Shaping Common Future [ 8 ] page 59 C4CF 2012 Highlights

[ 1 ] C4CF Let s meet our neighbour at a Glance! [5]

C4CF Let s meet our neighbour at a Glance! Contacts for the Common Future is a continuous process. The vision and achievements of the first step of the initiative, C4CF 2011, encourage us to continue with more demanding goals. By pursuing the vision Contacts for the Common Future we strive towards from Vision to Change, by enhancing cooperation sustainability among NGOs from Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia and Greece, developing cooperation between civil society and other sectors in society in both countries and by encouraging them to become facilitators of a broad policy dialogue. These aims are achieved by providing possibilities for cooperation, direct identification of areas of common interest and display of the mutual benefit derived from efficient cross-border cooperation serving business, civil society and government. Project activities do not align with nationalist political choices and adopt a more realistic approach. The two neighboring countries share similar interests and take similar paths. There is a common commitment to peace, stability and sustainable development of the SEE region. Moreover, the hope is that the integration of the region into Euro - Atlantic structures will be achieved through the establishment of good bilateral and regional cooperation. [6]

What happened at C4CF 2012? Phase I: Preparatory seminar, from 09 to 11 March 2012, Krusevo, Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia Exploring for a Common Future, two rounds of Study Visits : I. Study visits in Greece in 4 cities Florina, Edessa, Kastoria & Kilkis from 09 to 13 May, 2012 II.Study visits in Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia in 4 cities Ohrid, Bitola, Kavadarci & Strumica from 16 to 20 May, 2012 Sharing for a Common Future: Phase II: I. Feedback seminar, from 01 to 03, June, 2012, Struga, Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia Sharing for a Common Future: II. Briefing workshop from 20 to 21 October, Skopje, Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia Shaping Common Future: Follow up seminar from 15 to 18 February, 2013, Thessaloniki, Greece [7]

[ 2 ] [9]Phase I - Preparatory seminar

Preparatory seminar, 09-11.03.2012, Krusevo Day I 09.03.2012, Friday 15.00 19.00 Registration of participants 19.30 20.30 Dinner 20.30 21.00 Opening: Welcoming the participants Presentation : Background of the project Mr. Metodija Stojceski, Ms. Nita Starova & Mr. Babis Papaioannou representatives of Youth Alliance - Krusevo, FES office Skopje and UNESCO Youth Club of Thessaloniki 21.00 21.30 Continuation of opening session Presentation of the initiative Contacts for the Common Future 2012 Presentation of the Preparatory Seminar Programme, Aim & Objectives 21.30 22.00 Introduction of the participants ` 22.00 Welcome evening Day II 10.03.2012, Saturday 08.30 09.30 Breakfast 09.30 10.00 Evaluation exercise Evaluation Tree Expectations of the project and each other 10.00 11.00 Presentation : - Introduction to the project phase Exploring for the Common Future ; - Presentation of the study visit groups; - Q/A time 11.00 11.30 Coffee Break 11.30 12.30 Exploring and Defining Study Visits settings and scenarios - Key topics and what can be done with items in the Visits Setting; - Methodology of work; Spare time & Needs assessments; Working in eight groups study visits groups 12.30 14.00 Presentation of working groups results 14.00 15.30 Lunch 15.30 16.30 Interactive workshop: - Responsibilities of the participants in the framework of the group; - Access to information - checking the level of information and risk assessments; - Group reports and Participants companion - group analysis of the documents Working in eight groups study visits groups 16.30 18.00 Group building activity Group dynamics - Presentation of the results of the game 18.00 18.30 Coffee Break 18.30 20.00 Presentation and interaction: Expected project results and outcomes, Evaluation Process and Follow up phase - Expected project results and outcomes; - Aims of evaluation, evaluation measures/activities and methods, sources of information, evaluation criteria and indicators; - Follow up phase Development of List of ideas for further bilateral youth cooperation, dissemination of project results, and promotion of new approach of building good neighboring relations. 20.30 22.30 Traditional Dinner in Krusevo 22.30 The Motivation Party!!! Day III 11.03.2012, Sunday 08.30 09.30 Breakfast 09.30 10.00 Preparation for following session 10.00 12.30 Simulation Study Visits in Krusevo 12.30 14.30 - Group presentation of the feedbacks from the simulation exercise; - Analysis and comparison of the feedbacks and outcomes through presentation of expected results and outcomes of the study visits. 14.30 15.00 Evaluation of the seminar Sequential Evaluation 15.00 16.00 Lunch 16.00 Departure of participants [10]

The Preparatory Seminar in Krusevo was the first step of the annual initiative Contacts for the Common Future Let s meet our neighbour. It brought together 40 participants who were introduced to a full review of the project activities instructions, tasks and procedures. The three day seminar was concieved as an informative and preparatory space where participants were familiarized with the full project activities and methodologies. The seminar focused on the Study Visits phase. Participants were informed about the charachter of the visits, they were provided with the possibility to discuss key topics, ways to proceed with items in the Visit Setting and further steps in between visit rounds. Wight groups were established composed of four guests each and one host leader. Each group received a copy of the draft agenda and a handbook with a specific guide for the city, focus point of exploration. Group leaders together with group members explored the Study Visits settings and scenarios. During the preparatory seminar each study visit group had: Role Definitions, Responsibilities and Task Delegation - process of delegation the tasks, responsibilities and roles of every member of the group. [11]

[ 3 ] Exploring for a Common Future [13]

Exploring for a Common Future First Round of Study Visits Edessa After comprehensive preparation activities the first round of short study visits was conducted from 9th to 13th of May by four groups of youth workers/active young people. Topic of the study visits was Meet the opportunities for cooperation and the focus points of exploration were the cities Kastoria, Florina, Edessa and Kilkis in Greece. 20 young people divided into 4 groups, consisted of 4 guest participants and 1 host, explored the richness of the neighbor - regions, youth work realities, societies and documented experiences, good practices of cooperation from business sector, local communities and civil society sector. Florina Kastoria Kilkis The daily agenda was created to facilitate the identification of areas for collaboration and cooperation between civil societies from the two neighboring countries, and were motivated to establish sustainable partnerships through exploring and learning about the possibilities for cooperation. [14]

Programme of the Study Visit in the city of Florina Wednesday 9/5 14:00 Arrival at Faidon Hotel and accommodation of the participants Free afternoon 19:00 Group Gathering - Introduction of Group Report 20:00 Dinner and city tour Thursday 10/5 8:30-9:30 Breakfast and departure from hotel at 10:00 11:00 Visiting Municipality of Florina: Meeting with the Mayor. Discussion about the Municipality s youth policies. Discussion with the Mayor s assistants, responsible for youth and culture. 13:00 Visiting the School of Fine Arts. Discussion about the problems and priorities of the students. 14:00 Lunch 17:00 Visiting NGOs and local unions 19:00 Common Group Report group work: Summarizing of the meetings. 20:00 Dinner Friday 11/5 8:30-9:30 Breakfast and departure from hotel at 10:00 11:00 Visiting the Chamber of Florina: Discussion about development and entrepreneurship opportunities and the importance of cross border cooperation. 14:00 Lunch 17:00 Visiting NGOs and local unions 19:00 Common Group Report group work: Summarizing of the meetings. 20:00 Dinner Saturday 12/5 8:30-9:30 Breakfast and departure from hotel Visiting NGO Cultural Triangle of Prespa Lunch Common Group Report group work: The group shall organise a timetable concerning the editing of its Group Report that has to be ready for the Feed-Back Seminar. 20:00 Dinner Sunday 13/5 8:30-9:30 Breakfast 10:00- Departure [15]

Programme of the Study Visit in the city of Kastoria Wednesday 9/5 14:00 Arrival at Anesis Hotel and accommodation of the participants Free afternoon 19:00 Group Gathering - Introduction of Group Report 20:00 Visiting the Centre of Environmental Education of Kastoria 21:00 Dinner and city tour Thursday 10/5 8:30-9:30 Breakfast and departure from hotel at 10:00 11:00 Visiting Municipality of Kastoria: Meeting with the Mayor. Discussion about the Municipality s youth policies. Discussion with the Mayor s assistants, responsible for youth and culture. 13:00 Visiting the Technological Institute of Kastoria, Department of International Trade. Discussion about the problems and priorities of the students. 14:00 Lunch 17:00 Visiting NGOs and local unions 19:00 Common Group Report group work: Summarizing of the meetings. 20:00 Dinner Friday 11/5 8:30-9:30 Breakfast and departure from hotel at 10:00 11:00 Visiting the Chamber of Kastoria: Discussion about development and entrepreneurship opportunities and the importance of cross border cooperation. 14:00 Lunch 17:00 Visiting NGOs and local unions 19:00 Common Group Report group work: Summarizing of the meetings. 20:00 Dinner Saturday 12/5 8:30-9:30 Breakfast and departure from hotel at 10:00 10:30 -City tour, sightseeing with members of NGOs. -Discussion about priorities and problems of the young people in Kastoria. 14:00 Lunch Common Group Report group work: The group shall organise a timetable 16:00 concerning the editing of its Group Report that has to be ready for the Feed-Back Seminar. 20:00 Dinner Sunday 13/5 8:30-9:30 Breakfast 10:00- Departure [16]

Programme of the Study Visit in the city of Kilkis Wednesday 9/5 17:00 Arrival at Evridiki Hotel and accommodation of the participants Free afternoon 19:00 Group Gathering - Introduction of Group Report 20:00 Dinner and city tour Thursday 10/5 8:30-9:30 Breakfast and departure from hotel at 10:00 13:00 Visiting Municipality of Kilkis: Meeting with the Mayor. Discussion about the Municipality s youth policies. Discussion with the Mayor s assistants, responsible for youth and culture. 14:00 Visiting Department of Kilkis Prefecture: Sustainable development, investments and cross border cooperation. 15:00 Lunch 17:00 Visiting NGO and local union 19:00 Common Group Report group work: Summarizing of the meetings. 20:00 Dinner Friday 11/5 8:30-9:30 Breakfast and departure from hotel at 10:00 13:00 Visiting the Chamber of Kilkis: Discussion with mr. Tonikidis, about development and entrepreneurship opportunities and the importance of cross border cooperation. 14:00 Lunch 17:00 Visiting NGO and local union 19:00 Common Group Report group work: Summarizing of the meetings. 20:00 Dinner Saturday 12/5 8:30-9:30 Breakfast and departure from hotel at 10:00 City tour, sightseeing and visiting NGO members. Discussion about priorities and problems of the young people in Kilkis. 14:00 Lunch Common Group Report group work: The group shall organise a timetable concerning the editing of its Group Report that has to be ready for the Feed-Back Seminar. 20:00 Dinner Sunday 13/5 8:30-9:30 Breakfast 10:00- Departure [17]

Programme of the Study Visit in the city of Edessa Wednesday 9/5 14:00 Arrival at Xenia Hotel and accommodation of the participants Free afternoon 19:00 Group Gathering - Introduction of Group Report 20:00 Dinner and city tour Thursday 10/5 8:30-9:30 Breakfast and departure from hotel at 10:00 11:00 Visiting Municipality of Edessa: Meeting with the Mayor. Discussion about the Municipality s youth policies. Discussion with the Mayor s assistants, responsible for youth and culture. 13:00 Visiting Municipality s Infrastructure for Youth and Culture 14:00 Lunch 17:00 Visiting NGOs and local unions 19:00 Common Group Report group work: Summarizing of the meetings. 20:00 Dinner Friday 11/5 8:30-9:30 Breakfast and departure from hotel at 10:00 11:00 Visiting the Chamber of Edessa: Discussion about development and entrepreneurship opportunities and the importance of cross border cooperation. 13:00 Visiting Local Youth Council of the Municipality of Edessa 14:00 Lunch 17:00 Visiting NGOs and local unions 19:00 Common Group Report group work: Summarizing of the meetings. 20:00 Dinner Saturday 12/5 8:30-9:30 Breakfast and departure from hotel at 10:00 -City tour, sightseeing. 10:30 -Discussion about priorities and problems of the young people in Edessa. -Visiting the Programme of Environmental Protection, implemented by the Hellenic Ornithological Society. 14:00 Lunch Common Group Report group work: The group shall organise a timetable 16:00 concerning the editing of its Group Report that has to be ready for the Feed-Back Seminar. 20:00 Dinner Sunday 13/5 8:30-9:30 Breakfast 10:00- Departure [18]

Short Study Visit Edessa, 09-13, May, 2012 The Study Visit group: Maja, Hristijan, Ognen, Maja & Irini Goals of the study visit: To explore the richness of the neighbor - regions, youth work realities, societies and to document experiences, good practices of cooperation from business sector, local communities and civil society sector; To facilitate the identification of areas for collaboration and cooperation between civil societies from both neighboring countries particularly areas of collaboration and cooperation in the city Edessa; To motivate participants to establish sustainable partnerships through exploring and learning about the possibilities for cooperation. Place we visited: Municipality of Edessa Twining cities Kavadarci, Prilep, Bitola Inclusion of Young People in Edessa: Festivals for young people, Theatrical team of Edessa and Concerts Cooperation with Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia in three areas: environment, tourism and gastronomy Supporting youth initiatives and innovative ideas Youth Parliament Touristic Info Desk of Edessa Promotion of tourism and alternative tourism based on individual approach Cultural Calendar Current Bilateral projects: - Be Water IPA CBC project between municipalities of Kavadarci and Edessa- Flood and water management since we share same mountains and rivers [20]

- Varosi INERREG project between Municipalities of Edessa and Prilep -preserving and adjusting the old part of the towns Edessa and Prilep; - Vill.age. Q -INTERREG project between the municipalities of Edessa and Mogila; Creation of Village information center which will improve promotion of products made in the villages and will encourage people to use the local products. - Kajmak INTERREG project between the municipalities of Edessa and Kavadarci for developing and preserving the gastronomy roots of the region. Commercial chamber of Edessa Cooperation with economic chambers from Skopje and Bitola Balkan Union of Chambers Business knows no politics Offering free business in schools for young people Motivation to include young people in Chamber activates Agras Wetlands Hellenic Ornithological Society Biodiversity of birds LIFE + - programme possibilities for bilateral cooperation Tas TV Interview with Greek on line TV Comparison between youth problems in both countries Sharing experiences The entertainment activities during the study visit? Welcome night Tsipuro night Lunch at Waterfall restaurant Volunteers house [21]

Short Study Visit Florina, 09-13, May, 2012 The Study Visit group: Ana, Mihajlo, Katerina, Darko & Evi Goals of the study visit: To explore the richness of the neighbor - regions, youth work realities, societies and to document experiences, good practices of cooperation from business sector, local communities and civil society sector; To facilitate the identification of areas for collaboration and cooperation between civil societies from both neighboring countries particularly areas of collaboration and cooperation in the city Florina; To motivate participants to establish sustainable partnerships through exploring and learning about the possibilities for cooperation. Place we visited: Chamber of Commerce - Florina - Collaboration with Chamber of Commerce Bitola - Cooperation with Municipality of Demir Kapija - Red Wine Project - Cooperation with Faculty of Economics (Marketing Department) in Prilep - Center for Education and Networking in Tourism INTERREG project renovation of an old building in Demir Kapija to develop a Center for Education and research in tourism, as well as the creation of a network of stakeholders in tourism and winemaking. Municipality of Florina - INTERREG (detailed programme for possible cooperation was forwarded to the orginzers by the Vice Mayor) - Common art exhibitions - Collaboration with Milk production factory in Bitola - Mutual Research Project with the Municipality of Novaci on Environment Protection - Pollution Measurement - Collaboration between municipalities of Prilep and Florina, NGOs and Faculty in Prilep - Football competition for children from June 28 -July 2, 2012 in Florina -Team from Skopje will participate. PRESPA NGO - Cultural Triangle of Prespa (C.T.P) - Ecotourism - PRESPATUR PRESPA for FuTURe Economy and Society «Three countries one destination» [22]

- Youth in Action programme youth volunteerism - Networking and development of NGOs - Red Pepper - from August 2003 to July 2004, C.T.P with the NGO - FOKUS in FYR Macedonia and Ampep in Albania as well as with schools in the three border regions. The initial objective was to record the ways of cooking and ways of conservation of the pepper. - NGO Network of the Prespa-Ohrid region (Albania, Macedonia, Greece) Cultural Triangle of Prespa (CTP) for the networking of the NGOs in the Prespa-Ohrid region with the cooperation of EastWest Institute (EWI), its local partners in Korce, Bitola and Kozani, and, since 2005, with the NGO ALLCOOP Ohrid. Website with databases containing the analytical profiles of the NGOs, organisations of the region, funding programmes and other useful information and online services (www.prespaohridngo.org). Management body of Prespa National Park - Trans-boundary Monitoring System - Agreement for sustainable development among Greece, Albania, Macedonia Current possibilities for Bilateral Neighbor Cooperation programs, institutions, networks: - Cultural club of Florina (Photography and Painting Exhibition) - Pigasos club for nutrition and athletics Organize mutual athletic events - Municipality of Florina (INTERREG programme) - Bicycle path Florina-Prilep, Food Tasting and Folklore Festival in 2013 between Municipalities of Florina and Bitola - Music festival in Prespa - Quitar Concert June 11th by young children from Prespa - Fencing club Florina - Hosting and sending of European Volunteers CTP Youth exchange programme - Thematic Cross-border Tourism Products - Alternative forms of tourism, such as green, eco, sports, adventure, agricultural, cultural tourism are forms that can be applied to the crossborder region - Creation of cross-border tourism work group - Low Budget Guide of Prespa, Cheap tourism in Prespa, as a tourist destination for young people - Krusevo and Prespa mutual cooperation in the field of tourism [23]

Short Study Visit Kilkis, 09-13, May, 2012 The Study Visit group: Biljana, Ivo, Marijana, Hristijan & Tasos Goals of the study visit: To explore the richness of the neighbor - regions, youth work realities, societies and to document experiences, good practices of cooperation from business sector, local communities and civil society sector; To facilitate the identification of areas for collaboration and cooperation between civil societies from both neighboring countries particularly areas of collaboration and cooperation in the city Kilkis; To motivate participants to establish sustainable partnerships through exploring and learning about the possibilities for cooperation. Place we visited: Municipality of Kilkis - LEADER 3 Preservation of the Dojran Lake and the river Aksios/Vardar. Implemented by: Municipality of Kilkis, Chamber of Commerce, Prefecture of Kilkis in cooperation with municipalities from the neighbor country which are close to Dojran Lake; - Municipal Department of Culture Puppet and Mime Festival possibility for youth cross border cooperation - Municipal Center of Arts and Music Possibilities for cooperation between young people by using music, dances, handmade crafts or any other visuals as tool for cooperation and intercultural communication Kilkis Chamber of Commerce & Industry InCluDe - IPA CBC - Promote Innovative Entrepreneurship through Development of an Aromatic and Pharmaceutical Plants Cluster, to Succeed Sustainable Development; [24]

Promotion of alternative tourism routes in the CBC areas of Greece - Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia - Project of the INTERREH III A Neighborhood Programme Greece-Macedonia (ERDF/ CARDS). The Regional Enterprises Support Center Bitola is a partner from the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia side; Cooperation with University in Bitola Kilkis Development Agency PROMO.CROSS - Integrated Plan for the Promotion of the Joint Architectural Heritage and the Development of Religious Tourism in the Cross Border Area Youth Information Center of Kilkis Pure Municipal Company for Multilateral Development of Kilkis Ergon - Youth Info possible transfer of good practice in the neighbor country Prefecture of Kilkis Mapping Churches - Mapping the old churches in Kilkis and in Krusevo which will result in a publication - Cooperation in terms of joint promotion of cultural heritage Current possibilities for Bilateral Neighbor Cooperation: Twin Kilkis with a cross-border town (possibly Gevgelija) because it will result with direct cooperation Participation of groups from the neighbor countries in the cultural summer of Kilkis (theatre groups, folk dance groups etc.) Participation in the Kilkis Puppet Festival Workshops for murals or graffiti for young people from the cross-border region Youth in Action (youth camps) for young people who do handmade things (jewellery, woodcarving ); European Voluntary Service Joint outdoor activities between rescue and scout teams (restart of the scout teams in Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia) [25]

Short Study Visit Kastoria, 09-13, May, 2012 The Study Visit group: Aleksandra, Dragana, Sanja, Irina & Athina Goals of the study visit: To explore the richness of the neighbor - regions, youth work realities, societies and to document experiences, good practices of cooperation from business sector, local communities and civil society sector; To facilitate the identification of areas for collaboration and cooperation between civil societies from both neighboring countries particularly areas of collaboration and cooperation in the city Kastoria; To motivate participants to establish sustainable partnerships through exploring and learning about the possibilities for cooperation. Place we visited: The Environmental Educational Center Kastoria EEC expressed an interest to cooperate with the Educational Institute from Ohrid since they have same aim and goals. - AEGEE Kastoria Balkan environmental collaboration focusing on the lakes of the surrounding geographical area (Ioannina, Kastoria, Prespa, Ohrid) The Municipality of Kastoria Featuring the Local Self-Government s institutional framework- Exploring the paths leading to a regional cross-border co-operation - This project aimed to involve the Local Self- Government (LSG) institutions of the Prespa/ Ohrid Triangle of Cooperation which includes the Regions of West Macedonia(Kozani, Florina, Kastoria, Grevena),Greece and Korca ( Districts of Korca, Pogradec, Kolonja and Devoll ), Albania, as well as the Municipalities of Bitola, Resen, Ohrid and Prilep, from the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia; Technological Institute of Kastoria Possible cooperation on the Educational Level students exchange - AIESEC Local Club of Kastoria Bilateral Youth Exchanges inside the AIESEC [26]

network Interaction with Prespa cooperation in triangle NGO Sinergasia Bilateral cooperation between NGOs with target group young people with fewer opportunities Bilateral cooperation between NGOs with main aim environmental protection Kastoria Chamber of Commerce & Industry Possible cooperation between Economic Chambers of Ohrid and Kastoria Fur & Pearls Fairs, Fashion Events Bilateral Business Developing Seminars Arctos Kastoria Improving conditions of bear-human coexistence in Kastoria Prefecture, Greece - Transfer of best practices Project supported by LIFE Nature and Biodiversity which is taking place in Kastoria with emphasis on areas of permanent or seasonal presence of brown bears (Ursus arctos). Current possibilities for Bilateral Neighbor Cooperation: Technological Institute of Kastoria possible cooperation on educational level Student Exchanges; Cooperation based on transfer of know how; AIESEC bilateral cooperation - Exploring the neighbors through a cultural or professional international internship; Centre of Environmental Education of Kastoria Educational Institute Ohrid bilateral cooperation for Environmental Education Bilateral cooperation on protection of Nature and Biodiversity particularly on the protection of the brown bears; Neighborliness can be built trough a common cause. For example, bringing together two NGOs which have the same axes of priorities e.g. NGOs with target group young people with fewer opportunities; Carnival roads youth networking for the carnival traditions in both countries; Bilateral Religion Cooperation - Networking of art students; Religion tourism; Bilateral cooperation between youth NGOs for protection of cultural heritage Bilateral cuisine we,the neighbors, enjoy in good cuisine. [27]

[ 4 ] Exploring for a Common Future [29]

Kavadarci Exploring for a Common Future Second Round of Study Visits After the successful first round of study visits, the second round of study visits was conducted from 16th to 20th of May by four groups of youth workers and active young people. Same as in the first round the topic of the study visits was Meet the opportunities for cooperation but this time the focus points of exploration were the cities Ohrid, Strumica, Bitola and Kavadarci in Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia. The approach and methodology was the same as in the first round of study visits conducted in Greece and the study groups for collection of the needed information and materials were guided by the answers of the following questions: What are the current possibilities for Bilateral Neighbor Cooperation programs, institutions, networks? What are some of the promising practices/examples and at what scale are these being implemented? Bitola Ohrid Challenges faced by organizers/institutions/ communities in their efforts to implement policies related to neighborly cooperation. What are the challenges? Are they common challenges? Effective, innovative and new solutions and approaches for building neighborliness? The participants visited economic entities, cultural - historical projects, and met with youth and other civil organizations in each of the cities.the groups realized a meeting with the Mayors or other local authorities, of the cities they visited, where they were presented the activities and projects undertaken by the municipalities realized, with special emphasis on youth activities and initiatives, and cross-border projects neighboring Greece. The Bitola group also had the chance to visit the Greek consul in our country and see the historical heritage that Bitola region holds. Strumica [30]

Contacts 4 the Common Future - Short Study Visit (SSV), 16 20.05.2012 Time Day I (16.05.2012) Day II (17.05.2012) Day III (18.05.2012) Day IV (19.05.2012) Day V (20.05.2012) 08:30 10:00 11:00 Breakfast and departure from hotel at 9.30 Visiting Municipality of Bitola -Presentation of Municipality of Bitola Visiting Municipality of Bitola - continue Topic: Borders without boundaries Breakfast and departure from hotel at 9.30 Visiting Universitu ST. Kliment Ohridski Bitola Presentation: UKLO structure and International relations Breakfast and departure from hotel at 9.30 Guided tour at Heraklea Linkestis Bitola Breakfast Time to write Common Group Report group work 12:00 Coffee break/snack Coffee break/snack Coffee break/snack Coffee break/snack 12:30 13:30 14:30 16:00 Arrival at the Hotel De Niro and accommodation of the participants Visiting Greek Consulate in Bitola Topic: The spirit of cooperation Meeting with Mr. Markos Tripolitakis consular Topic:Internationalization of university actions -Representatives od International Relations Office of UKLO Sightseeing of Bitola - Exploring the city and its treasures Time to write Common Group Report - continuation of group work Lunch Lunch Lunch Lunch Visiting RESC Bitola Topic: The role of the civil society in bilateral relations -Presentations -Best practise Visiting Youth Cultural Center Study visit participants group work-civil Society in building sound CBC End of Study Visit and Departure of the participants 17:30 Coffee break/snack Visiting Business Start Up Center Bitola Topic: Climate of CBC on the 18:00 19:00 Group Gathering -Review of Short Study Visit program Group Gathering -Introduction of Group Report form economic level -Question/answer session Summary and time to discuss the common group report Visiting local NGOs - IAESTE, Biosvera, IMKA, Together Macedonia Coffee break/snack Summary and time to discuss the common group report Coffee Break/Snack Summary and time to discuss the common group report 20:30 Welcoming dinner Dinner Dinner Dinner Free evening Why we are here? Social evening in Bitola Nightlife in Bitola We are the best SVG! Entertainment activity [31]

Contacts 4 the Common Future - Short Study Visit (SSV), 16 20.05.2012 Ohrid Time Day I (16.05.2012) Day II (17.05.2012) Day III (18.05.2012) Day IV (19.05.2012) Day V (20.05.2012) 8.30 Breakfast and departure from hotel at 9.30 Breakfast and departure from hotel at 9.00 Breakfast and departure from the hotel at 9.30 Breakfast 10.00 Visiting Municipality of Ohrid -Introduction of Municipality of Ohrid Visiting Faculty of Tourism and Hospitality Ohrid Topic: Cooperative education partnerships -Question/answer session Meeting with representatives of LDA Struga Topic: Strategy for Sustainable Development Time to write Common Group Report group work 12.00 Visiting Municipality of Ohrid continuation of visit Topic: Regional Tourism Development Local Economical Development Visiting Red Cross - Ohrid Topic: Youth Volunteerism -Question/answer session -Active youth participation Meeting with representatives of LDA Struga - continuation of visit Topic: Youth program and UNECSO Club Struga Time to write Common Group Report - continuataion of group work 13.30 14.30 Lunch Lunch Lunch Lunch 17.30 Arrival at Hotel Vila de Lago and accommodation of the participants Visiting NGO Youth Council Ohrid Topic: Local Youth Polices -Question/answer session -Active youth participation Guide Tour Ohrid the City of Light -Church St. Sofia - Church of St. Panteleimon - Church St. John Kaneo - Samuil s Fortress - Lake tour ( Coffee Break/Snack) Meeting representatives from Youth Club Struga and ZFD Forum Topic: Establishing of youth clubs Question/answer session 17.30 Coffee Break/Snack Coffee Break/Snack 18.00 19.30 Group Gathering -Review of Short Study Visit program Group Gathering -Introduction of Group Report form Briefing concerning the role of youth in regional development Summary and time to discuss the common group report Summary and time to discuss the common group report 20.30 Welcoming dinner Dinner Dinner Dinner Free evening Spirit of Ohrid Entertainment activity Ohrid Nightlife! Social evening in Ohrid Study visit participants group work Civil Society in Active Youth Participation Summary and time to discuss the common group report Lake Party! Entertainment activity End of Study Visit and Departure of participants [32]

Contacts 4 the Common Future - Short Study Visit (SSV), 16 20.05.2012 Strumica Time Day I (16.05. 2012) Day II (17.05. 2012) Day III (18.05.2012) Day IV (19.05. 2012) Day V (20.05. 2012) 8.30 Breakfast and departure from hotel at 9.30 Breakfast and departure from hotel at 9.30 Breakfast and departure from the hotel at 9.30 Breakfast 10.00 Visiting Municipality of Strumica -Presentation of Municipality of Strumica Guided tour:discovering Strumica richness -Smolare waterfall -Kolesino waterfall Visiting NGO Youth Educational Forum, Branch office in Strumica TBC Guided tour:discovering Strumica richness -Roman Bath 12.00 13.30 14.30 14.30 Arrival at the Hotel Ilinden and accommodation of the participants Meeting with Mr. Zoran Zaev Mayor of the Municipality of Strumica -Question/answer session Meeting with youth NGO for sustainable development Porta Visiting Youth Council Strumica -Young creators of society Lunch Lunch Lunch Lunch Euroregion Belasica-CBC between FYROM, Greece and Bulgaria -Presentation by LG* representatives and Open Discussion Visiting Regional Economical Chamber Strumica Topic: Joint Chambers as facilitators of trade and investments Time to write Common Group Report group work Free time spent together Coffe End of Study Visit and Departure of participants 17.30 Coffe Break/ Snack Coffee Break/Snack Coffe Break / Snack Coffee Break/Snack 18.00 19.30 Group Gathering -Review of Short Study Visit program Group Gathering - Introduction of Group Report form Time to write Common Group Report group work Summary and time to discuss the common group report Visiting South East Planning Region -Question/answer session Summary and time to discuss the common group report 20.30 Welcoming dinner Dinner Dinner Dinner Free evening Strumica, Openness, Creation Entertainment activity Strumica Nightlife! Social evening in Strumica Time to write Common Group Report group work Summary and time to finalize the common group report Small Ajvarijada! Entertainment activity [33]

Contacts 4 the Common Future - Short Study Visit (SSV), 16 20.05.2012 Kavadarci Time Day I (16.05.2012) Day II (17.05.2012) Day III (18.05.2012) Day IV (19.05.2012) Day V (20.05.2012) Breakfast 8.30 Breakfast and departure from hotel at 10.00 10.30 Visiting Municipality of Kavadarci -Presentation of Municipality of Kavadarci Breakfast and departure from hotel at 10.00 Visiting Tikves Winery Winemaking, winemakers and heritage Breakfast and departure from the hotel at 10.00 Introduction of the project Green Zone in Kavadarci Time to write Common Group Report group work 12.00 Visiting of the University of Kavadarci Visiting the House of Culture in Kavadarci Visiting Tikves Winery Winemaking, winemakers and heritage Introduction of the project Green Zone in Kavadarci Time to write Common Group Report - continuation of group work 14.00 Lunch Lunch at Tikves Winery Lunch Lunch 16.00 Arrival at the Hotel Feni and accommodation of the participants Visiting Red Cross Kavadarci Guided tour: The colors of Tikvesh -Visiting Stobi Visiting local organizations and NGOs End of Study Visit and Departure of participants 17.30 Coffe Break/ Snack Coffee Break/Snack Coffee Break/Snack 18.00 Group Gathering -Review of Short Study Visit program 19.30 Group Gathering -Introduction of Group Report form Summary and time to discuss the common group report Visiting the park and monuments in Kavadarci Summary and time to discuss the common group report Summary and time to discuss the common group report 20.30 Welcoming dinner Dinner Dinner Dinner City tour Free Night Kavadarci Nightlife! We will back! Social evening in Kavadarci Entertainment activity [34]

Short Study Visit Bitola, 16-20, May, 2012 The Study Visit group: Maria, Stefanos, Burak, Giorgos & Aleksandar Goals of the study visit: To explore the richness of the neighbor - regions, youth work realities, societies and to document experiences, good practices of cooperation from business sector, local communities and civil society sector; To facilitate the identification of areas for collaboration and cooperation between civil societies from both neighboring countries particularly areas of collaboration and cooperation in the city Bitola; To motivate participants to establish sustainable partnerships through exploring and learning about the possibilities for cooperation. Place we visited: Municipality of Bitola Bitola is the center of the intellectual people; Almost the 50% of the total budget is spent for cultural projects due to the Bitola s archaeological heritage - mostly enhance the interest of youngsters to focus on cultural festivals; A new Cross Border project of power plant started and is seriously a way to produce energy heat with less cost and environmental pollution; The mayors of Bitola and Solun, Vladimir Talevski and Yiannis Boutaris, signed a declaration for cooperation and joint promotion before EU funds within the INTERREG and IPA programmes with a project Cultural Industries. Cooperation between the Municipality of Sykies (Greece) and the Municipality of Bitola. Ergani Center is supporting this cooperation. Greek Consulate in Bitola Bringing People Together Building Bridges; Youth Cooperation between Greece and Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia - there are some youth exchanges that take part student exchanges from both countries but in a very primitive stage; An enterprising cooperation with sustainable development between two countries will be a very tempting idea. Apart from that establishing meetings for youth cultural projects on more and wider fields that give youngsters the chance to meet people that are so close but a wall seperate them and exchange ideas. [36]

Technical Engineering Faculty Description of the curriculum of studies that are almost common in 2 countries; Student exchange programmes are very helpful in the communication and deeper understanding of each other. The reason is that exchange programmes are very effective in establishing the common sense. Pedagogic Faculty Clarification about the educational system in the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia very important for the organizing of bilateral student exchanges; cooperation in academic level and Bilateral Research Cooperation; Great contribution: Linguistic sector-every student to follow a different programme depending on the country that comes from and in parallel to learn Macedonian s language; Regional Enterprise Center Bitola The primary role of RESC is to assist SMEs in building the internal strengths and capacities that they need to survive and develop into an increasingly competitive environment; As RESC Bitola, operates in a region close to the Greek and Albanian border, it is particularly active regarding cross-border activities. In partnership with the cross-border partners from Greece and Albania Centre for Inter-Balkan Cooperation in Kozani and Regional Development Agency in Korca, RESC has implemented and is currently implementing joint Projects that present the base on which the Prespa Euroregion can be developed. Youth Cultural Center European Volunteer Services Local Youth centers EU Youth Programmes IPA CBC programme Youth Networking Current possibilities for Bilateral Neighbor Cooperation: Student exchange programmes Bitola is University Town with wide range of possibilities for student exchanges; Cross Border Youth Cooperation through Volunteerism; Signing declarations for cooperation and joint promotion between youth NGOs from the both neighboring countries; An youth social enterprising cooperation with sustainable development between two countries will be a very tempting idea; Bilateral Local Youth Centers; Youth Networking Fostering a Common Future [37]

Short Study Visit Kavadarci, 16-20, May, 2012 The Study Visit group: Maria, Manos, Eirini, Elisabet & Gjorgji Goals of the study visit: To explore the richness of the neighbor - regions, youth work realities, societies and to document experiences, good practices of cooperation from business sector, local communities and civil society sector; To facilitate the identification of areas for collaboration and cooperation between civil societies from both neighboring countries particularly areas of collaboration and cooperation in the city Edessa; To motivate participants to establish sustainable partnerships through exploring and learning about the possibilities for cooperation. Place we visited: Municipality of Kavadarci Kaimaktsalan Gastronomy Routes - House of Taste in Edessa and Kavadarci, with the aim to promote the cross-border gastronomy, culture and support the food and tourism; Gastronomy Information Centre in Edessa & Two ecogastronomy expositions: the Blossom and Cherry Festival in Edessa and the Wine Festival in Kavadarci; Municipality of Delta and Municipality of Kavadarci have the common need for the protection of the rivers that run through their geographical area: the river of Axios and the river of Luda Mara. The overall objective of the proposed project is the realization of common actions and specific interventions for the protection of the natural environment; University of Kavadarci - Faculty of Agriculture Kavadarci Possibilities for cross border cooperation on the educational level students exchanges, Academic CBC; Young Teachers Visitor Program; [38]

Regional Certification of Professional Skills on Agro Tourism Sector; Integrated Selection, Protection and Promotion of Balkan Forest Genetic Resources with Aesthetic Value House of Culture in Kavadarci Let s youth cooperate in order to protect and celebrate the cultural heritage; A relationship based on values to respect our cultural values Visiting Tikves Winery Center for Education and Networking in Tourism - Center for Education and research in tourism, as well as the creation of a network of stakeholders in tourism and winemaking; Council for Prevention of Juvenile Delinguency SPPMD European Volunteer Cervices - bilateral EVS cooperation Cross border cooperation between NGOs with target group young people with fewer opportunities; Cross Border Cooperation Youth for Community Youth for Local Development Current possibilities for Bilateral Neighbor Cooperation: Kaimaktsalan Youth Routes bilateral youth cooperation; Bilateral Student Exchange Programme; Cross border cooperation for Youth Entrepreneurship; Young Teachers Visitor Program Student Exchange Programme in the area of Agro Tourism Sector Youth for Democracy Bilateral Actions for Democracy Acting by knowing the means of Democracy bilateral transfer of know how and knowledge; CBC Volunteerism Active Participation in the society though Cross Border Cooperation [39]

Short Study Visit Ohrid, 16-20, May, 2012 [40] The Study Visit group: Gjoko, Ippokratis, Nena, Kyriaki & Eirini Goals of the study visit: To explore the richness of the neighbor - regions, youth work realities, societies and to document experiences, good practices of cooperation from business sector, local communities and civil society sector; To facilitate the identification of areas for collaboration and cooperation between civil societies from both neighboring countries particularly areas of collaboration and cooperation in the city Ohrid; To motivate participants to establish sustainable partnerships through exploring and learning about the possibilities for cooperation. Place we visited: Municipality of Ohrid Great cross border cooperation with neighboring counters (MK- Al; MK GR) SustCult - http://sustcult.eu/- Using EU funds form South- East Europe Transnational Cooperation Programme priority 4 (Achieving SUSTainability through an integrated approach to the management of CULTural heritage) Spirit of Ohrid CBC project implemented with partnership between Ohrid and Pefka Municipality - Digital mapping of cultural heritage sites - Local Economic and Development Department Cross border cooperation - town-twinning Edessa-Ohrid. Youth Council Ohrid Volunteering program for young people - Including young people in active social leaving trough volunteering in public institutions and local companies; Bilateral initiative-across the Lake Initiative: Building Sustainable Partnership Between Young People from Macedonia and Albania. This know how the young people can use and for development of bilateral cooperation between Greece and the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia; Transfer of knowhow for development Several Youth Programs Development of youth creativity Youth Creativity Program for commitment of youth in community Youth in action Local programs for prevention of drugs, alcohol and tobacco transfer of know how Engaging volunteers form primary schools of Local Youth Policies Visiting Faculty of Tourism and Hospitality St. Kliment Ohridski - Ohrid Cooperative Education Partnership sending and receiving visiting professors

The Faculty of Tourism and Hospitality also represents interesting cooperation. Initially the Erasmus Programme is applied in the Faculty, by which the students can visit foreign countries and develop relationships with students of similar scientific interests and studies. It also has commitments with Universities from all over the world like the Nice University in France, the Sheffield University in Thessaloniki, Greece and many American Universities and Colleges. Participation in EU CBC project Possibility for cooperation with faculty for management in Edesa University of Macedonia Organization of Red Cross Ohrid Established cooperation with other organization of Red Cross in the world Possibility for cooperation with Red Cross Thessaloniki Excellent techniques in attracting young people for volunteering Volunteering for CBC Bilateral Training Courses for young people on different topics Local Development Agency Struga Great experience in writing implementation reporting about CBC projects (MK-AL MK-GR) Youth programs with possibility for cooperation Forum Theater Photography workshops Soft skill ( mostly financed by FES) UNESCO Club Struga potential for cooperation with other UNESCO clubs from the CBC region Accredited in sending and receiving volunteers from EVS Current possibilities for Bilateral Neighbor Cooperation: Higher Education Common researching programs with subjects that concern apart from general academic interests and common characteristics of cross-border region (such as cultural and natural resources or indigenous races of animals). Common laboratories for the utilization of infrastructures and know-how that exists in one side of the borders and from the other countries. Infrastructures of protection and development of the environment Biological cleaning of waste in the cross-border region for the protection of the common water flow and of the land. Culture Joint activities for the preservation, exploitation and promotion of the cultural heritage (prehistorical settlements and cemeteries, Byzantine monuments) in the wider region. Establishment of a cultural-touristic net concerning the Byzantine heritage for the registration, preservation and exploitation of the Byzantine monuments. Τourism Edition of a joint touristic guide of Prespa/Ohrid region. Establishment of cross-border touristic zone (without visa). [41]

Short Study Visit Strumica, 16-20, May, 2012 The Study Visit group: Anastasia, Alexandro, Mineto, Vasileos & Bojan Goals of the study visit: To explore the richness of the neighbor - regions, youth work realities, societies and to document experiences, good practices of cooperation from business sector, local communities and civil society sector; To facilitate the identification of areas for collaboration and cooperation between civil societies from both neighboring countries particularly areas of collaboration and cooperation in the city Strumica; To motivate participants to establish sustainable partnerships through exploring and learning about the possibilities for cooperation. Place we visited: Municipality of Strumica NTheSSIS - Network of Thermal Spring Sources as an Integrated System. The main objective of the project is the creation of a joint touristic synergy based on the promotion of sustainable Thermal Tourism. The project aims at fostering thermalism, wellness and spa tourism. Partners in the project: the touristic agencies and the municipalities of Kilkis, Serres, Florina, Pella and Thessaloniki and on the other side of the border in Debar, Gevgelija, Strumica and Kocani; Strumica is open for business Partners: Municipality of Strumica, Center for local economic development and Thessaloniki Chamber of Commerce and Trade and Small industry Chamber of Thessaloniki; - Sector for Local Economic Development within the Municipality Strumica micro-region centre for local economic development Support to farmers and small and medium agricultural enterprises in border area of diversification of production, improving market access and competitiveness and adoption of quality systems IPA project Improving cross-border cooperation to reduce the environmental impact of commercial and industrial enterprises in the border region [42]

Tsar s Towers - 7000 years of cultural tradition Factory MAMA s and Ajvarijada How can businesses sector contribute to the youth cross border cooperation Cross Border Cooperation through events like Ajvarijada Meeting with the representatives of the Euroregion Belasica Euroregion Belasica-Beles (EL/FYROM/BG) Euroregions as mechanisms for strengthening cross border cooperation Meeting with the representatives of the South East planning region Development of alternative forms of tourism and their integration into economic activities of cross-border region Association of citizens Sustainable development centre PORTA Association is to strengthen the role of the civil sector in the promotion of human rights, democracy development and the legal rights via monitoring the implementation of the Law on protection against discrimination; Strong NGOs can contribute to the Cross Border Cooperation and can develop sustainable CBC; Project 48 which helps the citizens to face their problem in 48 hours. NGO Youth Educational Forum Branch Strumica Youth for Open Societies Local Youth Initiatives Festival of public debates debate as tool for youth cross border cooperation YES network Current possibilities for Bilateral Neighbor Cooperation: A common future could include cultivation of mutual efforts in the many possibilities for a successful cooperation. The current projects aim at strengthening the bilateral relations with trade, communicationsbecause of the small distance between borders and educational cooperation in terms continuous implementation of exchange programs for students and volunteers. Also renewing the historical heritage, the small and medium agricultural enterprises, environmental causes and tourism are only few of the currently existing possibilities for cooperation as the municipality of Strumica is regularly applying for the IPA program and also for the INTERREG cross-border programme for this fields [43]

[ 5 ] Sharing for a Common Future

Feedback Seminar Daily Programme - 01-03 of June, Struga Friday, 01.06.2012 12.00 Arrival at the Hotel Drim, Struga 13.00 14.30 Lunch 14.30 15.00 Welcome words and introduction of the program - Mr. Metodija Stojceski, Youth Alliance Krusevo - Mr. Babis Papaionnau, UNESCO Youth Club of Thessaloniki - Ms. Nita Starova, Friedrich Ebert Stiftung 15.00 15:45 Group presentation Study Visit in Edessa - Municipality for youth youth for Edessa - Tourist information centers - opportunity for youth entrepreneurship - Unique opportunities for cooperation youth and environmental protection in Edessa 15.45 16.30 Group presentation Study Visit in Ohrid - The role of the youth in regional development - Cooperative education partnerships - Local Youth Polices 16.30 17.00 Coffee break 17.00 17.45 Group presentation Study Visit in Florina - Challenges and prospects of Cross-Border Cooperation - Development, entrepreneurship opportunities and the importance of cross border cooperation - Networking and development of NGO s through cross border cooperation 17.45 18.30 Group presentation Study Visit in Strumica - Young people are the future and present of our municipalities - Joint Chambers as facilitators of CBC trade and investments - Young creators of society 18.30 18.45 Short break 18.45 19.15 Summary and introduction of the program for the following day 20.00 Dinner [46]

Saturday, 02.06.2012 08.30 09.30 Breakfast 09.30 10.15 Group presentation Study Visit in Kilkis - Priorities and challenges of the young people in Kilkis - Sustainable development, investments and cross border cooperation - People-to people communication - Institution-to institution communication 10.15 11.00 Group presentation Study Visit in Bitola - Borders without boundaries - UKLO structure and International relations - The role of the civil society in bilateral neighboring relations 11.00 11.30 Coffee break 11.30 12.15 Group presentation Study Visit in Kastoria - New forms of youth participation - Cross border cooperation in research and education - Strong civil societies Chance for development of neighboring countries 12.15 13.00 Group presentation Study Visit in Kavadarci - Regional Cooperation Inter -Municipal Cooperation - Volunteering Exchanges for sound CBC - Youth Cooperation cooperation with future 13.00 14.30 Lunch 14.30 15.00 Summary and introduction to the program of the following day 15.00 20.00 Excursion to the City of Ohrid 20.00 Dinner at Restaurant Belvedere Sunday, 03.06.2012 08.30 09.30 Breakfast 09.30 11.00 Working in groups - 8 working groups (according to the study visits) - Identification of Axes of priorities for Future Actions 11.00 11.30 Coffee Break 11.30 13.00 Development of concrete project ideas and project proposals - Working together and creation of groups according to individual interest 13.00 14.00 Summing up and evaluation session 14.00 15.30 Lunch 15.30 Departure of participants [47]

Group presentation Study Visit in Edessa Effective, innovative and new solutions and approaches for building neighborliness between young people: Cooperation between Youth Parliament Edessa and Youth Parliaments in the neighbor country; Twining cities the role of young people in the twining cities; Creation of Youth Information Center based on the experience of the Village Information Center ; Youth for preservation of gastro routes in both countries; Free business classes in school transfer of good practices from Edessa in the neighbor country; Cooperation between Jarak - Assotiation for protecting and breeding birds of prey and Agras Wetlands CBC for protection of nature and biodiversity; Young people for Nature CBC for Waterfalls in Edessa and Waterfalls in Smolare Youth Exchange during the famous festivals Cross border cooperation and European Volunteer Service Youth Roads for Youth Entrepreneurship Group presentation Study Visit in Florina Effective, innovative and new solutions and approaches for building neighborliness between young people: Cultural club of Florina (Photography and Painting Exhibition) - Organizing bilateral cultural events; Pigasos club for nutrition and athletics Organizing mutual athletic events; Municipality of Florina (INTERREG programme) - Bicycle path Florina-Prilep, Food Tasting and Folklore Festival in 2013 between Municipalities of Florina and Bitola Youth for Municipalities Municipalities for Youth; Music festival in Prespa & Quitar Concert June 11th by young children from Prespa - Organizing bilateral cultural events; Fencing club Florina Organizing mutual turners for young people Values VS Stereotypes and Prejudices; Hosting and sending of European Volunteers CTP Youth exchange programme Cross Border Cooperation through Volunteerism; Thematic Cross-border Products CBC & Youth Entrepreneurship; Alternative forms of tourism, such as green, eco, sports, adventure, agricultural, cultural tourism are forms that can be applied to the cross-border region; Creation of cross-border tourism work group; Low Budget Guide of Prespa Cheap tourism in Prespa as a tourist destination for young people - Krusevo and Prespa mutual cooperation in the field of tourism. [48]

Group presentation Study Visit in Kilkis Effective, innovative and new solutions and approaches for building neighborliness between young people: Kilkis is town where outdoor activities, arts, crafts, food and music are highly appreciated by the young people. Therefore the neighborly approaches between young people should focus on using music, dances, handmade crafts or other visuals as tools for cooperation and intercultural communication. The Cooperation between governmental and business institutions should serve as an example and good practice for development of civil society cooperation. Twining Cities - Twin Kilkis with a cross-border town (possibly Gevgelija) because it will result with direct cooperation; Culture Events in service for Cross Border Cooperation - Participation of groups from the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia in the cultural summer of Kilkis (theatre groups, folk dance groups etc.); Festival Cross Border Cooperation - Participation in the Kilkis Puppet Festival; Different forms of participation of young people in society - Cross Border Workshops for murals or graffiti for young people from the cross-border region ; EU programs for enhancement CBC between the young people from these two neighbor countries - Youth in Action (youth camps) for young people who do handmade things (jewellery, woodcarving ) & European Voluntary Service; Cross border cooperation & Volunteerism; Joint outdoor activities between rescue and scout teams (restart of the scout teams in FYR Macedonia). Group presentation Study Visit in Kastoria Effective, innovative and new solutions and approaches for building neighborliness between young people: Cross-border cooperation among research-performing organizations - Technological Institute of Kastoria possible cooperation on educational level Student Exchanges; Cooperation based on transfer of know how; Cross Border Student Mobility - AIESEC bilateral cooperation - Exploring the neighbors through a cultural or professional international internship; Centre of Environmental Education of Kastoria Educational Institute Ohrid bilateral cooperation for Environmental Education Cross border networking of NGOs with same axis and priorities - Bilateral cooperation on protection of Nature and Biodiversity particularly on the protection of the brown bears; Neighborliness can be built trough a common cause. For example, bringing together two NGOs which have the same axes of priorities for e.g. NGOs with target group young people with fewer opportunities; Carnival roads youth networking for the carnival traditions in both countries; Bilateral Religion Cooperation - Networking of art students; Religion tourism; Bilateral cooperation between youth NGOs for protection of cultural heritage Bilateral cuisine we, the neighbors, enjoy in good cuisine. [49]

Group presentation Study Visit in Bitola Effective, innovative and new solutions and approaches for building neighborliness between young people: Being two countries so close, doesn t mean necessarily that they know well each other. For this reason it is common sense that both countries must build bridges in order to explore and investigate better and in depth their neighbourhood. To start with, cross border cooperation between the civil societies is brilliant idea. To sum up there is a long way until both countries find the way to walk closely. Sticking to that point we could be more optimistic. Bridges don just appear they need to be artfully designed, carefully built and constantly maintain. We want to be builders of the Bridges toward common future. Current possibilities for Bilateral Neighbor Cooperation: University Town Twining; Student exchange programmes Bitola is University Town with wide range of possibilities for student exchanges; Cross Border Youth Cooperation through Volunteerism; Signing declarations for cooperation and joint promotion between youth NGOs from the both neighboring countries; An youth social enterprising cooperation with sustainable development between two countries will be a very tempting idea; Bilateral Local Youth Centers; Youth Networking Fostering a Common Future. Group presentation Study Visit in Kavadarci Effective, innovative and new solutions and approaches for building neighborliness between young people: Kaimaktsalan Youth Routes bilateral youth cooperation; Bilateral Student Exchange Programme; Cross border cooperation for Youth Entrepreneurship; Young Teachers Visitor Program; Student Exchange Programme in the area of Agro Tourism Sector; Youth for Democracy Bilateral Actions for Democracy Acting by knowing the means of Democracy bilateral transfer of know how and knowledge; CBC Volunteerism SPPMD Kavadarci, Red Cross in Kavadarci, creactive Kavadarci all interested for volunteering actions; Active Participation in the society though Cross Border Cooperation.

Group presentation Study Visit in Strumica Effective, innovative and new solutions and approaches for building neighborliness between young people: A common future could include cultivation of mutual efforts in the many possibilities for a successful cooperation; The current projects aim at strengthening the bilateral relations with trade, communications- because of the small distance between borders and educational cooperation in terms continuous implementation of exchange programs for students and volunteers. Also, deepening of the CBC between young people from the two neighboring countries is of great importance; The most promising examples are mainly the projects regarding the young population exchange of students between our countries and the increase of tourism. This way the youth population of both countries will be more aware of the neighbour. Also the ecological and industry projects have high possibility of success because both countries are facing the same issues and situation; The education, economic and industrial projects will be success at all levels; The most apprising challenge is the lack of information which causes cultivation of prejudices and wrong points of view instead of cooperation Promotional events, Campaigns, Resource Centers Also the lack of willingness from both sides can be also considered but that is a result of the above mentioned problem with the wrong perspective Motivation of Youth for CBC; To overcome the obstacles and build mutual trust public awareness should be raised both formally and informally with projects like this, study visits as this one too, forums, promotion of tourism etc. Group presentation Study Visit in Ohrid Effective, innovative and new solutions and approaches for building neighborliness between young people: Common researching programs with subjects that concern apart from general academic interests and common characteristics of cross-border region (such as cultural and natural resources or indigenous races of animals); Common laboratories for the utilization of infrastructures and know-how that exists in one side of the borders and from the other countries; Universities bonds share of technological bond; Promoting language learning Learning the language of neighbours- Linguistic problems, many people do not speak English and this is a problem which toughens up partnership. Joint activities for the preservation, exploitation and promotion of the cultural heritage (prehistorical settlements and cemeteries, Byzantine monuments) in the wider region. Biological cleaning of waste in the cross-border region for the protection of the common water flow and of the land; Establishment of a cultural-touristic net concerning the Byzantine heritage for the registration, preservation and exploitation of the Byzantine monuments. Edition of a joint touristic guide of Prespa/Ohrid region. Establishment of cross-border touristic zone (without visa).

[ 6 ] Sharing for a Common Future Phase II

[54] Briefing Workshop & Media Promotion of C4CF 2012

[ 7 ] Shaping Common Future

Follow up seminar 15-18.02.2013, Thessaloniki Day I. Friday 15.02.2013 Session Methodology Content 17.30 Arrival of participants 18.30 19.30 Welcome and Introduction 20.00 Dinner Day II. Saturday 16.02.2013 08.30 09.30 Breakfast 09.30 10:30 Defining the axis of priorities for further actions 10:30 12:30 Personal action planning 12:30 13:00 Coffee break 13:00 14:30 Group action planning Phase I 14:30 16.00 Lunch Introduction session through presentation Session Methodology Content 16.00 17.30 Group action planning Phase II 17.30 18.00 Coffee break 18.00 19.30 Possibilities of funding programmes 19.30 Dinner Day III. Sunday 17.02.2013 09:30 11:00 New generation of C4CF C4CF 2013 11:00 11:30 Coffee break 11:30 13:00 Presentation and establishment of C4CF Alumni 13:00 14:30 Presentation of Alumni positions 14:30 16:00 Lunch Brain storming and group discussion Brainstorming and presentation Free grouping and open disscusion Group work and flipchart presentation Open space discussion Session Methodology Content Presentation and open discussion Presentation and discussion Presentation 16:00 Sightseeing in Thessaloniki Free Afternoon -Greetings from the host organization -Seminar introduction Agenda, aims and objectives -Preselection of axis of priorities -Listing of axis of priorities for future joint actions Participants will plan future steps necessary in order to apply the experiences, knowledge and motivation gained during the project C4CF 2012 -Defining of the personal fields of interest as a base for future cooperation Grouping of participants according to their interests and brainstorming for development of new project ideas for future joint actions Writing down on flip charts and presentation of results of the group work Discussion on the possibilities of the fund raising of the future project ideas - Short introduction to the planned activities for C4CF 2013 Presentation of the roles and responsibilities of C4CF Alumni Presentation of the positions: - Region/City Contact; Project Initiator; Network Contributor Day IV. Monday 18.02.2013 Session Methodology Content 09:30 11:00 Summary of the project Interactive workshop and Summarizing the C4CF initiative open discussion 11:00 11:30 Coffee break 11:30 13:00 Final Evaluation Short presentation & discussion 13:00 Lunch and Departure Presentation of Final Evaluation Questionnaire [56]

Individual Action Planning What are my future steps in order to apply the experience and knowledge gained during the C4CF 2012? As I already did I will do my best in future to use all feedback I gained through C4CF Darko I will be more politically active in order to bring good examples from our neighbors in my society Dragana I will be included in the creation of the debate teams in both countries in order strengthen dialogue among young people from both countries particularly dialogue over political and social issues Ognen I will spread all of my positive experiences from this project with young people in my organization - Christos I will support the on line bilateral cooperation C4CF on line for sharing values, hopes and fears Marijana I will connect my Dance club from Skopje with the School for Fine artists from Florina Katerina I will initiate Training Course Peace Education in my organization for strengthen the bilateral cooperation between young people Gjoko I will organize small workshop with students from my university for Youth Political Participation Students should be critical about political decisions Maja I will connect the Erasmus Club of University Goce Delcev, Stip with Erasmus Club of University of Macedonia, Thessaloniki Sanja I will invite volunteers from the neighbor country to support me and my organization for the organizing of Balkan Fest Rodanthi I will support the Carrier Center in the high school in my community which is established by the bilateral cooperation between UNESCO youth club Thessaloniki and LDA Struga and I will bring all gained knowledge during the C4CF initiative in the bilateral project between my country and Albania for development of CBC between young people - Irina I will create my own NGO in order to support young people in their efforts for CBC Eirini Using this concept within other bilateral projects organized by my organization Damir I will be City Contact Alumni position in Kozani I will make this initiative known in my region Kozani and I will motivate other young people to participate in the bilateral initiatives Eirini I will be initiator for establishment of permanent network which will promote collaboration in both countries Ana Get in touch with all possible contact in my community Florina local authorities, Mayor, Chamber and organize wide event in Florina for bilateral cooperation Evi As an early childhood education teacher I will organize a link of multicultural courses a month investigating Balkans and our nieghbour countries. I will initiate in my institution for publishing of booklet Let s explore our neighbour for children at 9-13 age Maria; I (foreign language teacher) Learning language better communication better future projects better cross border cooperation Aleksandra Encourage new young people to take part and be initiators of small projects for CBC in which they will learn about the neighbor country and they could freely express their opinions, work together with their neighbors and vote for the best option of CBC between the young people Hristijan I alredy connected two touristic agencies one form Florina and one from Krusevo. I will continue to work on this process for touristic collaboration beween two countries Mihajlo Participate and mentoring in the process of developing C4CF Hristijan I will be initiator and one of the creators for an on line CBC blog Ippokratis [57]

Group Action Planning I. Guess What? Guess Who? Guess What? II. Virtual Classroom Language of your neighbor take you further III. On line networking platform - Creation of a Virtual Resource Center for CBC [58]

IV. Youth Participation Summer Camp Raise Up! V. Bilateral Student Exchange Programme Breaking the Wall! VI. Youth Entrepreneurship CBC Mobility of young volunteers Voluntarism CBC [59]

[ 8 ] C4CF 2012 Highlights

C4CF 2012 Highlights The role of civil society in both the shaping of relations between Greece and the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, as well as between the peoples of the two countries is crucial. The existence of a sustainable and string cooperation between NGOs from both countries will added value to approaches and perspectives of bilateral cooperation with focus on citizens and this cooperation will act as a multiplier of good neighborhood relations. Maintaining the bridges between two countries: Bridges don t just appear- they need to be artfully designed, carefully build and constantly maintained. We, the young people together we can build those bridges. Let s bring good neighborhood relations high in all agendas on local, national and regional level. The future of these relations relies on young open minded individuals that are educated, ready and willing to take active role in the society in years to come. [62]

Thank You! THANK YOU! Contacts 4 the common future WOULD NOT BE POSSIBLE WITHOUT YOU! Youth Alliance Krusevo and UNESCO Youth Club of Thessaloniki, the organizers of Contacts for the Common Future, would first of all like to thank to the Balkan trust for democracy, a project of The German Marshall Fund of the United States for the continuous support. A special thanks goes to our long term partner and supporter of our activities, Friedrich Ebert Foundation, Office Skopje. Also we would like to thanks to all partners, institutions and participants for their contributions and dedication before and during the project events. A special thanks goes to all the staff and volunteers without whom Contacts 4 the Common Future would not have been so perfectly organised! Because together we can build a common ground and bridges for a COMMON FUTURE! [63]

We give you the bricks of inspiration, but you will have to BUILD A COMMON FUTURE C4CF Let s meet our neighbour at a Glance! Preparatory Seminar Exploring for a Common Future Exploring for a Common Future Sharing for a Common Future Sharing for a Common Future Phase II Shaping Common Future C4CF 2012 Highlights