US AMBASSADOR TO ARMENIA HIGHLIGHTS ORGANIZATION OF ANNUAL "COUMMUNITIES’ CIVIL ACTION" CONFERENCE

ARMENPRESS
SEPTEMBER 23, 2009
YEREVAN

In the sidelines of USAID’s Youth and Communities Action Program
(YCAP), which in Armenia is being implemented by the Academy for
Educational Development, "Communities’ Civil Action" third annual
conference kicked off in Tsakhkadzor. About 160 representatives from
80 communities are participating in the event which will be held until
September 25. The participants will discuss issues of general interest,
exchange experience promoting the cooperation among communities and
consolidation of close working relations. During the conference the
representatives of YCAP will take part in "Leadership", "Public
Relations", "Civil Participation", "Protection of Interests" and
"Alternative Mass Media" working meetings as well as at the session
which will be held in "Open Distance" method on "Promotion of Civil
Activity in Armenia" theme.

US Ambassador to Armenia Marie Yovanovitch said that the conference
has an important role in promoting the protection of civil interests,
creation of networks as well as for constructive work with local
and national establishments. "I had an opportunity to get acquainted
with the implemented work during the visits to the province. It is
very nice to see the enthusiasm and readiness the young people are
contributing to the development of the community," the ambassador
said. She noted that the cooperation is important for developing
mechanisms for solution of interest protection issues and for reaching
good result. "Your participation in the conference witnesses that you
realize that with joint efforts it is possible to reach changes in
favor of development of your communities. It is necessary to display
firmness and successiveness and you will be able to erect the society
you seek to have," M. Yovanovitch said.

The participants of the conference presented to the ambassador the
issues they were concerned and suggestions relating to the future c
Melkonyan said that the conference is aimed at establishing cooperation
between the active civil groups of Armenia, give them an opportunity
to discuss the issues they are concerned with as well as share their
experience and the lessons they have learnt. She expressed hope
that the participants will do everything to ensure the efficiency of
the event.

During the conference an exhibition will operate where the members
of the Youth activity clubs will present their works. By now more
than 2000 volunteers of Youth action clubs and Community activity
commissions presented 1200 programs.