Inclusion in Action: Local Experience and International Cooperation

Last week, the team of the Regional Community Development Center (CRDC) took part in a working meeting with representatives of non-governmental organizations from Azerbaijan, who were on a study visit to the Republic of Moldova at the invitation of AO “ActiveWomen”. The meeting took place in Cahul and focused on the exchange of good practices in the field of social inclusion and the protection of the rights of persons with disabilities.

During the discussions, CRDC presented initiatives implemented at local and regional levels to promote educational and social inclusion, with a strong emphasis on intersectoral cooperation and community-based solutions.

One of the key initiatives presented was the mapping of inclusive services in Cahul district, carried out together with local partners and finalized through the development of an Informational Guide to Local Services for Children and Young People with Special Educational Needs. The guide is already available and will serve as a practical reference tool for parents, professionals, and public authorities.

The meeting also highlighted the Regional Platform for Educational Inclusion, currently under development. This initiative brings together schools, kindergartens, local authorities, social and medical services from the districts of Cahul, Cantemir, and Taraclia. At this stage, efforts are focused on defining a clear framework for intersectoral collaboration through consultations and cooperation agreements.

Another example of good practice discussed was CREI – the Resource Center for Inclusive Education, inaugurated in the village of Crihana Veche with the support of SAP Cahul, within the A.R.I.P.I. project. The center represents the first model of its kind implemented in a rural kindergarten in the region, providing an adapted environment and support services for children with special educational needs.

The meeting offered a valuable opportunity to reflect on progress made and to strengthen cooperation with international partners who share common values related to inclusion, equal opportunities, and human rights.

The visit took place within the framework of the project “Strengthening Civic Participation in Azerbaijan”, funded by the European Union and BMZ and implemented by GIZ, with the aim of encouraging cooperation between civil society organizations from Moldova and Azerbaijan.

Note: The photographs used in this article are credited to Əlilliyə Erkən Yardım Portec Şəbəkəsi İctimai Birliyi.