2021 – 2022 European Union
Natura 2000 is the European Union’s ecological network that encompasses areas of vital importance for the conservation of threatened species and habitats at the European level. Covering more than 18% of the EU’s land area and over 8% of its marine territory, Natura 2000 is the largest coordinated network of protected areas in the world. It provides a refuge for Europe’s most valuable and endangered species and habitats.
In Montenegro, the establishment of the Natura 2000 network introduces a new concept of spatial and nature management that integrates ecological, social, and economic dimensions.
As ecosystem research is currently underway to identify future Natura 2000 areas in Montenegro, this project contributes to enhancing public participation and improving cross-sectoral cooperation in the management of natural resources.
Through a series of educational and awareness-raising activities, the project aims to strengthen the knowledge and capacities of local communities, local governments, national institutions, and key users of natural resources. Special emphasis is placed on the sustainable use of natural assets, particularly those habitats that will be part of the Natura 2000 network.
The project will result in the development of a pilot model for the management of a potential Natura 2000 river basin area, a detailed analysis of the status of mammals in Montenegro, with a special focus on Natura 2000 species, trainings including presentations and fieldwork, and the production of publications on species and habitats of EU importance, along with posters, exhibitions, animations, and video clips.
The project is implemented in cooperation with Wildlife Montenegro, as part of the broader initiative “CSOs in Montenegro – From Basic Services to Policy Shaping – M’BASE.” The project is led by the Centre for Civic Education (CCE), in partnership with the Friedrich Ebert Foundation (FES), the Center for Protection and Research of Birds of Montenegro (CZIP), and the NGO Politikon Network, and in cooperation with the Ministry of Public Administration, Digital Society and Media, and the Office for European Integration of the Government of Montenegro. The project is financially supported by the European Union.
