The Center for Civil Communications, in collaboration with the Center for Intercultural Dialogue,  funded of the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in the Republic of North Macedonia, convened an informative meeting. This meeting served as the platform for the presentation of research results under the project titled “Safeguards against Corruption.” The focus of this groundbreaking research was to map the existing situation with sports facilities in various municipalities, with the ultimate aim of fostering a strategic transformation in the management of state-owned sports facilities.

The central objective of the research is to guide the sports sector in adopting a coherent and well-defined strategy for the management of state-owned sports facilities. This strategy will not only provide a blueprint for how these facilities should be utilized but also establish a clear concept for their effective administration.

One of the primary challenges encountered during the research process was the difficulty in obtaining accurate data. It was revealed that certain municipalities lack up-to-date records of their sports facilities, contributing to a severe deficit in accountability. As the research’s findings directly depend on the quality and reliability of data, the responsibility for data accuracy falls squarely on the shoulders of the municipalities involved. This finding underscores the pressing need for improved record-keeping and transparent data management practices within the municipalities.

The presentation of the research results also showcased the vital role that the project “Safeguards against Corruption” plays in holding local governments accountable for their state-owned sports facilities. This initiative is not just about data collection; it’s about fostering a culture of transparency and integrity that will, in turn, facilitate better and more equitable access to sports facilities for the community.

The collaborative effort between the Center for Civil Communications and the Center for Intercultural Dialogue, with the support of the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, exemplifies the power of international cooperation in driving positive change. It demonstrates how collective action can pave the way for comprehensive reforms in areas critical to the well-being and development of a nation.

As the “Safeguards against Corruption” project continues to progress, it is imperative that both local and national stakeholders come together to address the issues highlighted in the research. The meeting in MultiКулти  was just the beginning of a transformative journey towards a more equitable and corruption-free sports landscape.