In accordance with the process of synchronization of Bulgarian legislation and strategic documents with the priorities in EU policies, the Centre for European Initiatives (CEI) studies successful models and practices from other European countries and adapts them to Bulgarian specifics and environment. Our objective is to implement innovative apporoaches in solving traditional major problems for Bulgarian society. Since the end of May 2008, after a successful project in Birmingham, UK (CEI participated as a partner organization), we have been studying the possibilities and the implementation of the “social theatre” method. It is an approach with a high rate of adaptability to various communities and mostly to marginalized groups, because it allows all direct participants to independently propose diverse solutions to a given case and to agree together on the most useful solution based on personal responsibilty and tolerance. Public indifference towards social conflicts and forms of discrimination, as well as the passiveness of marginalized groups, is a problem for which there is no single universal solution. We believe that the introduction of new alternative approaches should be a priority in the development of local policies.

Main objective of the project: Implementation of the social theatre as an innovative approach for inclusion of marginalized groups through enhancing the capacity of civil society for participation in local policy making aimed at overcoming social discrimination.

The project was implemented by CEI – Stara Zagora and the Community centre in the village of Trud, Plovdiv region. Additional partners were attracted during the implementation of the project – local authorities, media, the Ombudsman of Stara Zagora.

A team of 16 experts, trained to use the methodology of the “forum theatre”, was formed. After studying, defining and prioritizing the problems of local communities, the volunteers developed and presented before citizens 4 forum plays addressing the following issues: problems with administrative services provision, animal waste pollution, prevention of substance abuse among young people, communication problems between generations.

A manual about the implementation of the „forum theatre” approach was developed for the first time in Bulgaria. A documentary about the project results was made. A total of 620 participants were involved in the activities.

Problems that have been identified as important by local communities have been discussed. Equal opportunities have been provided for every participant by the use of innovative methodology.

Local capacity for civil participation in policy making regarding the problems of marginalized groups has been enhanced.

Participation of marginalized groups in local public activities has been stimulated and tolerance towards differences has been promoted. New models of good governance have been promoted.

Contact infromation

Krasimira Kamenova, Project manager

29 Tsar Kaloyan str., office 60

6000 Stara Zagora, Bulgaria

Tel./Fax: ++359 42 97 92 78

Cell Phone: ++359 887 094 124