Why?

More and more roads are being built in Lithuania, new houses and factories are being built, and businesses are being created. Not only new spaces appear, but also new neighbors. And we share the environment alone. We have to agree on it. In cities and towns, many decisions are made that are related to the environment in which we live, or, specifically, to our property – a house, a plot of land, a forest. People themselves are also becoming more and more active. However, studies show that for a meaningful dialogue between residents and municipalities, investors or neighbours, there is often a lack of knowledge, preparation, and faith in one‘s own strength.

What did we strive for?

The LLRI initiative “Su(si)tarkim“ sought for residents to have reasoned discussions on issues relevant to them and to peacefully agree on the environment in which they live.

What have we done?

In 15 municipalities of Lithuania, we conducted free trainings for local communities and non–governmental organizations. Over the course of a year and a half, we have trained 280 community leaders from 22 municipalities. Participants learned how to analyze and evaluate local public policy decisions, how to effectively participate in municipal decision–making, and how to communicate effectively. We have prepared illustrated manuals for public policy analysis and communication and situational analyses. Learning tools are available to everyone.

All learning tools can be found here. LLRI experts also analyzed the investment situation of the country‘s municipalities and conducted a survey of more than 250 local community leaders. The aim of this survey was to find out how communities are involved in the development of investment projects, whether they evaluate their economic, social and other aspects, whether they are able to justify their opinion and how they communicate with investors.

> The full study “Municipalities, Investments and Communities“ can be found here.