The Project Integrated Local Development (ILDP)
	The project „Integrated local development (ILDP)“ is a response to the needs of partner municipalities for systemic and sustainable approach to capacity building and policy formulation at the local level in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Even though there are  several models of participatory planning promoted in BiH, a unique methodology for planning and implementing local development strategies is not adopted yet. Bearing this in mind, ILDP initiated a process through which a single framework for local development planning was prepared, published and implemented in the municipalities in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Converting the municipal strategic goals to specific projects and action plans is still a major challenge. The aim of the project of integrated local development (ILDP) is the modernization and professionalisation of local development in Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH) through the development and implementation of a standardised approach to the integrated and inclusive local development. The primary purpose of the project is the creation of a unified methodology for participatory local development planning which will define the domain of local development in a comprehensive way. That means placing spatial, economic, demographic, social and environmental dimensions on the same level, taking into account citizens' participation and social inclusion. ILDP will provide close cooperation at the municipal level through targeted support and capacity building for qualitative municipal participatory planning, as well as the operationality and successful implementation of local development strategies. What is the guiding principle and approach of ILDP? Integrated and participatory local development planning is a basic principle that will be infused through all project activities. The concept of integrated local development planning refers to the understanding and definition of local development in a holistic manner, having special emphasis on establishing strong links between the strategic vision and financial and administrative modalities for implementation, where the local development is a complex matter, ensuring the interconnectivity taking into account the comparative advantages of each municipality. Participatory planning is an integrated part of ILDP approach. The aim is to provide a transparent and open environment for civilian participation and social inclusion in local planning process. Special attention is paid to the inclusion of endangered groups, under-represented citizen groups and minorities, thereby enabling long-term sustainability of local development strategy and strong commitment to community development process. Expected results All planned activities will be implemented in 24 municipalities in Bosnia and Herzegovina. ILDP will develop and implement a unified framework of local planning for the country. All partner municipalities will receive a personalized and practical support in order to develop or update their local development strategies and through open and participatory manner. Development vision and strategic goals for each municipality will be defined using an integrated approach, and taking into account the characteristics and comparative advantages of each municipality. ILDP will also provide support to the development of critical and independent, as well as accountable local civil society.ILDP Also recognized the benefit of the  development that provides broad and active participation of civil society. Attention will be directed towards ensuring inclusion of minorities, women and youth by encouraging their direct participation and representation of their interests via existing civil society organizations. Regional Environmental Centre, Country Office for Bosnia and Herzegovina has been engaged by UNDP in the consultation process on the preparation of an integrated strategy of local development, as a single document, and held a series of training sessions for all spheres of local development: spatial, economic, demographic, social and environmental, in order to provide all necessary assistance to eight municipalities in Bosnia and Herzegovina: Odzak, Samac, Orasje, Gracanica, Srebrenik, Tuzla, and Osmaci - Kladanj.   Integrated Local Development Project is a joint initiative of the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC) and United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) implemented by UNDP in partnership with entity associations of municipalities and cities, the Ministry for Human Rights and Refugees, Ministry of Public Administration and Local Government of the RS and FBiH Ministry of Justice. Financial support provided jointly by the SDC and the UNDP. REC Contact person: Đorđe Vojinović (djolev@blic.net)