To strengthen ecological capacities and improve the management of natural resources in the transboundary Prespa region, the Macedonian Ecological Society is launching the project “Prespa – Green and Blue Initiative: Strengthening Protection through Research, Education, and Communication,” funded by the European Union under the “EU for Prespa” programme.
The project was publicly presented last week in the lakeside village of Ezerani in Prespa, at an event marking World Environment Day, attended by the Ambassador of the European Union, H.E. Michalis Rokas, the Resident Representative of UNDP, Armen Grigoryan, the Mayor of Resen Municipality, Jovan Tozievski, and the Executive Director of the Macedonian Ecological Society, Robertina Brajanoska MA, along with representatives of various public institutions, NGOs, and local residents.
The project envisions the implementation of a comprehensive programme composed of activities across four key areas: education, research, conservation, and communication. Its aim is to foster a deeper understanding of the ecological complexities in Prespa and to motivate broader public engagement in its conservation. At the same time, institutions managing protected areas will receive strengthened capacities for research and monitoring of priority species and habitats, which is a prerequisite for the subsequent implementation of specific measures and plans for ecosystem protection. All activities will be carried out transparently, through an inclusive communication programme that actively involves the public. The project will be implemented over a four-year period, from March 19, 2025, to March 19, 2029.
“Inspired by decades of local experience in Prespa related to natural ecosystem research, awareness raising, educational efforts, and established cooperation with protected areas, the Municipality of Resen, and our cross-border partners, the Macedonian Ecological Society will leverage and share its experience and expertise to achieve the expected results. Strengthening the capacities of protected areas so they can implement the prescribed measures in their management plans, as well as educating youth and preparing a new generation of young leaders committed to the region’s preservation, is essential for ensuring a sustainable future for this area,” explains Dr. Robertina Brajanoska, Executive Director of the Macedonian Ecological Society.
“Ambassador Rokas, Mayor Tozievski of Resen, and UNDP Resident Representative Grigoryan took active part in the EU for Prespa programme at an excellent gathering in Ezerani, where eco-activists and representatives of Resen Municipality discussed and presented ideas for a cleaner and more attractive Prespa region,” shared the Delegation of the European Union to the Republic of North Macedonia after the event in Ezerani.
Alongside the Macedonian Ecological Society, partners in the implementation of project activities include the Municipality of Resen, Galicica National Park, the Society for the Protection of Prespa (SPP) from the Republic of Greece, and the Protection and Preservation of Natural Environment in Albania (PPNEA) from the Republic of Albania. The project will also be implemented in cooperation with the Ministry of Environment and Physical Planning of the Republic of North Macedonia and Pelister National Park.
The project “Prespa – Green and Blue Initiative: Strengthening Protection through Research, Education, and Communication” is funded by the European Union and co-financed by the Prespa-Ohrid Nature Trust (PONT).
