Communication for Development: Local Solutions for Environmental Protection

As part of the United Nations joint programme PRO – Local Governance for People and Nature, a one-day workshop titled "Communication in the Service of Development" was held, focusing on improving the process of developing public policies in the field of environmental protection at the local level.

The workshop gathered representatives of fifteen local self-governments that had previously participated in programme activities aimed at strengthening environmental governance. The objective of the event was to enhance participants’ knowledge and capacities for policy development in line with the principles of good governance, through the analysis of concrete examples and hands-on exercises.

Participants had the opportunity to explore, through interactive sessions, the key steps of a successfully implemented local intervention – including regulatory changes and decision-making – and to identify the challenges encountered during the implementation of such policies. Particular attention was given to participatory and transparent approaches to policymaking, as well as the application of the legal framework in addressing specific environmental issues.

The workshop included practical exercises for designing a roadmap for local public policies, along with tools and recommendations that can contribute to more efficient and accountable decision-making processes at the local level. Discussions further strengthened the exchange of experiences among municipalities and contributed to a process of shared learning.

Through the organisation of this workshop, the PRO Programme continues to support local governments in strengthening institutional capacities and establishing sustainable mechanisms for environmental protection, with active community engagement and the application of the principles of accountability, transparency, and the rule of law.

The Programme "PRO - Local Government for People and Nature" is jointly implemented by the United Nations agencies in Serbia - UNOPS, UNICEF, UNFPA and UNEP, in cooperation with the Government of the Republic of Serbia and with the financial support of the Government of Switzerland.