About us

The Centre for Development of the South-East Planning Region serves as a bridge between local municipalities, national policies, and international initiatives to foster sustainable and inclusive regional development. Established under the Law on Balanced Regional Development, the Centre actively works to identify and utilize the economic, environmental, and social potentials of the region, which encompasses 10 municipalities with 148,387 inhabitants across an area of 2.835 km². As one of the eight planning regions in North Macedonia, our region represents a model for balanced development, where tradition and modernization go hand in hand.

Our vision is the development of the region based on innovation, sustainability, and cooperation. Through modern policies, strategic programs, and tangible projects, we aim to:

Reduce regional disparities and improve the quality of life for all citizens;
Encourage competitiveness by supporting the local economy and human capital;
Develop rural and urban areas, as well as regions with specific development needs;
Strengthen cross-border cooperation and partnerships.

Key activities:

Drafting and implementing strategic programs for regional development;
Preparing projects financed by European funds and other sources;
Providing support to local authorities in drafting their development plans;
Promoting inter-municipal cooperation and regional affirmation;
Organizing trainings and implementing projects to improve the environment, economy, and tourism.

Why do we do this?

We believe that regional development is not just an economic process but a foundation for a better future, a driver for new ideas, and a creator of stronger communities. Every project, initiative, or partnership we build moves the region one step closer to a brighter tomorrow.

The Centre is dedicated to coordinating, planning, and implementing programs and projects that bring positive changes to the region. We collaborate with municipalities, civil society organizations, the private sector, and international partners to ensure the future our region deserves.

What is the role of the Centre for Development of the South-East Planning Region?

The Centre is the driving force behind advancing the region, focused on strategic planning, coordination, and project implementation to improve the lives of its citizens. Our activities cover the following key areas:

Development of Strategic Documents

The Centre prepares a Development Program for the Planning Region, Action Plans, and draft strategies to enhance the economy, infrastructure, and environment of the region.

Project Preparation and Implementation

We develop projects funded by national sources, the European Union’s funds, and other international partners, directly contributing to regional development.

Coordination and Support

The Centre coordinates the implementation of the Development Program and provides professional and technical assistance to municipalities, NGOs, and stakeholders in preparing projects and development plans.

Promotion of Regional Development Opportunities

We organize events, forums, and campaigns to promote the region, its potential, and its unique features, with a special focus on cultural heritage, tourism, and green practices.

Inter-Municipal and Cross-Border Cooperation

We encourage collaboration among municipalities and with regions from neighboring countries to jointly develop infrastructure, economy, and cultural exchange.

Monitoring and Reporting

We continuously monitor the implementation of projects, measures, and development programs to ensure transparency and efficiency.

Expert and Administrative Support

We provide expertise and administrative services to the Regional Development Council and other institutions involved in regional development.

Our priorities are clear:

Advancing the local economy;
Protecting the environment;
Inclusive development and reducing disparities among municipalities;
Developing rural and special-needs areas;
Strengthening regional competitiveness.

With this broad range of activities, the Centre for Development serves as a catalyst for positive change in the South-East Planning Region.

The Council of the planning region

The Council for Development of Planning Regions is a key body for planning, coordination, and implementation of regional development policy in North Macedonia. Established in accordance with the Law on Balanced Regional Development, the Council unites the mayors of municipalities from each planning region, along with representatives from the business sector and civil society organizations.

Core Functions of the Council for Development:

Adopting a Development Program for the planning region and annual action plans;
Organizing and coordinating activities for the implementation of development programs;
Setting project priorities and allocating financial resources;
Promoting inter-municipal and cross-border cooperation;
Monitoring and evaluating the implementation of regional programs and projects.

The President of the Council for Development of the Planning Region is elected from among the Council members for a term of one year, without the right to re-election.

Experts in regional development, representatives of chambers of commerce, trade unions, civil society organizations, and other relevant partners from the private and civil sectors may also participate in the Council’s work.

The Council serves as a driving force for regional development, ensuring that each region uses its potential for sustainable growth and competitiveness.

Council for Development of the South-East Planning Region

The Council for Development of the South-East Planning Region is a platform for cooperation among the 10 municipalities in the region: Bogdanci, Bosilovo, Valandovo, Vasilevo, Gevgelija, Dojran, Konche, Novo Selo, Radovish, and Strumica. The Council drives the vision of joint prosperity by identifying priorities, mobilizing resources, and coordinating development activities.

Key Activities of the Council:

Organizing and coordinating activities to monitor and evaluate the implementation of regional development plans;
Adopting a Development Program for the Planning Region, with prior approval from the Council for Balanced Regional Development;
Approving the annual action plan for implementing the Development Program;
Determining the annual list of proposed projects for regional development;
Submitting proposals to the Bureau for Regional Development to identify areas with specific development needs within the planning region, in accordance with Article 7 of the Law on Balanced Regional Development;
Ensuring coordination of activities among municipalities, civil society organizations, state agencies, and institutions operating in the field of regional development within the region;
Initiating discussions on issues related to regional development that require coordination among municipalities and private and civil sector partners;
Promoting cross-border cooperation with regions in other countries based on common interests;
Performing other tasks related to regional development as stipulated by law.

Role of the Council:

The Council focuses on creating a framework for the balanced development of the region while addressing the specific needs of each municipality. Through transparency and partnerships, the Council actively supports initiatives aimed at improving infrastructure, the environment, and the quality of life for citizens.

The President of the Council for Development of the South-East Planning Region is also elected from among its members for a one-year term, without the right to re-election. Experts, representatives of chambers of commerce, trade unions, civil society organizations, and other significant regional partners participate in the Council’s work, providing broad support and expertise.

The Council for Development of the South-East Planning Region exemplifies synergistic cooperation among municipalities, aiming for the shared development and progress of the region.