On 29 June, representatives of civil society organisations members of CSO Incubators in the framework of the “Commitment to Constructive Dialogue” Project in Yerevan, Syunik, Gyumri, Vanadzor and Gegharkunik marzes met with the Deputy Ministers of Labor and Social Affairs Arsen Manukyan and Arman Udumyan.

Deputy Ministers clarified CSOs’ opinion on the functioning of social security bodies. According to Arsen Manukyan, the social security authorities in provinces do not do enough work, and often they only consider themselves bodies “disseminating benefits”. That is why the support of non-governmental organisations is also needed in order to clarify sectoral issues and present and implement reforms.

“We, as a ministry, think about developing a separate format for co-operation with NGOs and to have a team of NGOs to support current activities,” Deputy Minister Arman Udumyan said.

CSO representatives shared their experiences in social work.

Civil society organisations (CSO) incubators are aimed at promoting CSOs’ capacity building and enhancing productivity.

9 target sectors are selected within the framework of the project. These are: justice, human rights, public finance management, business, education; social sphere: social inclusion of children with disabilities, agriculture, economy, and energy.