The Local Democracy Agency Montenegro in cooperation with the NGO Bona Fide, organized the first local workshop in the framework of the project IMPACT- “Inclusion matters! Using performing arts towards cohesion and tolerance” on the 4th of October 2019 in Pljevlja, a northern border town of Montenegro.

The representatives of the organizations and the artists gathered with 13 refugees from Nepal, Syria, Morocco, Algeria… and spent time exploiting their painting skills and artistic visions as a different form of communication. LDA Montenegro managed to pull out the refugees from everyday grey mood of uncertainty waiting to cross the borders by offering them the chance to enjoy an activity that is so common for everyday lives. The laughters resonated in the room, till the doorway of the hostel where the workshop was taking place. The participants felt appreciated, relaxed and happy to get involved and be included. “We feel happy because you have come and we did something good together” said Riden, a refugee from Nepal.

From this workshop, the project team could deduct that this target group needs more every-day and common activities in order to get rid of constant feeling of suspense and uncertainty, and to feel accepted.

The project IMPACT is implemented by VIFIN – Videnscenter for Integration in cooperation with ALDA, La Piccionaia – Centre for theatre production, LDA Montenegro, LDA Mostar, Coalition of youth organisations SEGA, Association for Developing Voluntary Work Novo Mesto (DRPDNM) and Urban Development Center supported by the Erasmus+ programme of the European Union.

Read the full article here.