Citizens and Institutions in Action for Social Cohesion

Podgorica, 4-5 December 2024

Over 140 citizens of Podgorica, together with representatives of local institutions, the United Nations, and the Government of Montenegro, participated in the Podgorica Dialogue as part of the UN Joint Programme Together for the Common Good. Through open discussions, innovative activities, and collaborative efforts, participants identified key challenges and proposed solutions to strengthen social cohesion and improve quality of life in the local community.

“In a time when UN values are under attack, we must be mindful of the issues that divide society. Trust lies at the heart of social cohesion,” said UN Resident Coordinator Diego Zorilla at the opening the event. 

UNDP Resident Representative Ekaterina Paniklova highlighted that Montenegro advances on its path toward European Union membership and it does so guided by values that foster social harmony. 

"Human dignity, democracy, equality, human rights...These principles are essential for building trust and solidarity within and among communities,” said Paniklova.

Representing the Government of Montenegro, Vučić Ćetković, Adviser to the Prime Minister for Culture and Youth, emphasized that “the strength of a community is not in its size but in its deep connection. We are building a society where no one is left behind.”

Ideas from this exchange will shape the upcoming Social Cohesion Innovation Lab, transforming the shared vision of a connected and inclusive community into tangible actions. The programme Together for Common Good - Enhancing citizens’ trust in institutions and building resilient communities is implemented by UNDP, UNICEF, and UNESCO in cooperation with Government of Montenegro. The programme is funded by UN Peacebuilding Fund.