Community development is a vital aspect of building strong and sustainable societies. One way to achieve this is through the implementation of capacity-building programs and monitoring mechanisms. The FSTP program is an example of such an initiative that has been successful in building the capacity of organizations and promoting accountability and transparency.

Capacity building is a process that involves developing an organization’s ability to achieve its objectives and mission effectively. The FSTP program takes a diversified approach to capacity building, which includes institutional grants, one-to-one expert support, and workshops in priority areas. This approach has proven to be effective in building the skills and capabilities of organizations, contributing to their development on a local level, and improving sectoral networking.

The FSTP program also recognizes the importance of monitoring and reporting to measure progress against strategic objectives and promote transparency and accountability. Monitoring is an ongoing activity that is incorporated into the program from the very beginning, including award procedures, recipients of the program, and evaluation of results and impact. This approach ensures that the program is continuously evaluated and adjusted as needed to achieve the desired results.

Contributors to the FSTP program, such as the Ms Olcay Özer, Hafiza Merkezi (presentation), Ms Edona Krasniqi, Kosovar Civil Society Foundation (KCSF) and Ms Marija Risteski, Center for research and policy-making (CRPM) (presentation) during the EU TACSO 3 workshop in Belgrade have been able to share best practices, promote learning, and enhance the impact of the program.  In conclusion, community development is essential for building strong and sustainable societies. Capacity building and monitoring are crucial tools for achieving this goal.