The end of summer for the entire IDM team also meant the continuation of the „IDM Melange“. It is a format where we meet representatives of institutions interested in our region and activities. 

At the beginning of September, we enjoyed digital coffee with another IDM, and it is IDM Albania. The Institute for Democracy and Mediation (IDM) was established in 1999 in Tirana, Albania, and as a non-governmental organization, generates knowledge and expertise for inclusive policy-making and evidence-based alternatives to bolster democracy and sustainable development. This meeting allowed us to get to know each other, discuss synergies, and exchange valuable experiences. We concluded that our common interests go far beyond the name, and we look forward to future cooperation. 

Last week, on the 19th of September, we hosted Connie Phlipot from FAWCO (Federation of American Women’s Clubs Overseas), a non-governmental organization that has brought together inspiring women working towards common goals of peace, multicultural understanding, and international goodwill. Connie gave us a closer look at the history and structure of the organization and highlighted the importance of over 50 Member Clubs in 28 countries, which are the foundation of FAWCO’s existence as a federation. In addition, our guest announced the following events and activities in which our cooperation would be possible.

Also, two days later on Wednesday 21st, young activists from Tajikistan from community Network by Consensus visited us, accompanied by their coordinators from the OSCE Program Office in Dushanbe. The Network by Consensus is a community of active young people and a forum for strengthening the youth dialogue. It serves as a platform to share the youth’s ideas and achievements, foster mutual learning, and develop new initiatives. After the initial introduction, it was exciting and valuable to listen to what challenges these young people from Tajikistan face in organizing various activities such as workshops and simulations. We hope this meeting will be the first step towards possible cooperation in the future. 

Darija Benic and Dino Filipovic