Kosovan divided cities conference

LONDONDERRY took part in a conference in divided city Mitrovicë/Kosovska Mitrovica last week which saw representatives from ten cities around the world share their experiences of post-conflict transition.

The conference brought together mayors, councillors, police chiefs, business, media and civil society representatives to discuss the challenges and successes of municipal administration in cities in transition from conflict.

The Londonderry delegates discussed how their municipal services function and how they can improve them discussing issues such as housing, business development, citizen engagement and policing, facilitated by experts from all over the world and particularly from Mitrovic/Kosovska Mitrovica.

The delegates also experienced life in Mitrovic/Kosovska Mitrovica, visiting projects and sites where citizens from both sides of the River Ibr/Ibar have come together to overcome difficulties in their everyday lives.

Community Relations Officer Angela Askin said: "Participating in this conference has been such an interesting and productive experience.

"I have been able to share the lessons of building community cohesion in Derry/Londonderry with delegates from around the world, and also learn from their experiences of post-conflict transition.

Sinn Fin Derry City Councillor Maeve McLaughlin added: "The conference is an important opportunity to explore models of best practice and to explore practical examples of increased collaboration in cities coming out of conflict.

"I believe Derry can support this process by presenting our regeneration plan and developing ways of targeting proposals to those in most need.”

The conference brings together representatives from Beirut, Belfast, Derry/Londonderry, Haifa, Jerusalem, Kaduna, Kirkuk, Mostar, Nicosia and Mitrovic/Kosovska Mitrovica for a diverse and truly international conference.

SDLP Councillor Gerard Diver stated: "This conference provides a fascinating insight into the lives of the citizens of Mitrovic/Kosovska Mitrovica and the issues which affect them as they transition to a more stable society.

"By sharing the experiences of the people of Derry, I hope to help other cities to progress as we have, and also to learn from them in how we can tackle pressing issues such as housing, economic development and community reconciliation.

"It has been a humbling and inspiring experience to see the difficult conditions in which they pursue peace and equality.

Willie Lamrock of Londonderry YMCA added: "This was very much a two learning experience during which the opinions of both sides of Mitrovic/Kosovska Mitrovica were well articulated."

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