The UNDP-SZMM Cserehát Programme
A new approach
Launched in November 2005 by the Minsitry of Social Affairs and Labour (SZMM) of Hungary and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the programme aimed to raise living standards to the levels enjoyed by other regions, and to improve the chances for excluded minority groups, such as the Roma, to join the economic and political mainstream. The total endowment of the programme was $2.8 million, distributed to needy applicants over the course of three years.
Funding for the programme was not large in comparison with other initiatives. More important than the money, however, was the new approach
International local development practice proves that in issues of human development, funds can only be spent efficiently if development is based on participation and if the local absorption capacity can be increased. Applications may be invited, but if there is no self-confidence, no joining of forces and no information, very few will be able to access the funds.
For further details consult the Principles of the programme sub-page. The program had four components: an initial call for micro-project applications, local mobilization with the introduction of ten coaches, the foundation of the regional Resource Centre for Social Development and the call for macro-project applications. Micro-projects and local mobilization
The UNDP–SZMM Cserehát Programme supported micro-projects and through them it has raised local interest in the development programmes.
Ten coaches from outside the region with experience in local development worked with communities in Cserehát’s 10 micro-regions defined within the programme. The coaches mobilized people to take part in decision-making, planning and project implementation. In this way, they aim was to build people’s motivation, self-esteem and sense of empowerment.
The programme’s local mobilization scheme awakened people’s hidden self-confidence, and brought many new local project ideas to the surface and helped local people realise the importance of creating partnerships. At the same time, it gave hands-on experience in the demanding techniques of project management to people never before exposed to such processes.
For further details consult the Micro-projects: Learning by Doing and the Local mobilization pages of the website. Resource Centre for Social Development (RCSD)
The RCSD was established in order to enhance local capacity and to support local social development activities both within the framework of the programme and outside of it.
For further details on the RCSD’s staff and achievements please consult the The Resource Centre for Social Development page. Macro-projects
The ultimate goal of the programme: to achieve better competitiveness of the region and mobilize local economies, is best ensured through longer term, large-scale development projects drawn up and implemented by local consortiums. The Cserehát Programme is providing technical assistance and grants to cover self-contributions required by donors and project implementation.
For further details on macro-project funding and applications please consult the Macro-projects: Realizing Development Impact page. Model programme
The Cserehát Programme is intended to serve as a model for initiatives in other parts of Hungary and Central Europe. The programme’s development solutions can be pursued by governments, non-governmental organizations and regional development actors. For further information go to Downloads.
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