Оn 11.09.2020 CED Florozon in cooperation with the Regional Geographical Society "Geosphere" - Bitola held the second initiative of the National CSO Coalition in Hotel Epinal Bitola.
The purpose of the second initiative was to address the problem of substandard living conditions of the Roma population in the settlement of Goren Bair in Bitola. NGOs proposed sustainable solutions to overcome the problems with illegal landfills, cable burning and air pollution, as well as problems with water supply and population hygiene during pandemic.
Geosphere-Bitola presented the results of the surveys made in Goren Bair, which refer to biggest environmental and communal problems. Moreover there was promotion of VIDEO presenting the way of life of Roma population.
During the debate, the public utility companies emphasized their efforts to overcome the problems, but also mentioned the constant obstacles and everyday difficulties they face. On the other hand, CSOs insisted on bringing sustainable lasting solutions that would completely solve the problems, instead of short-term solutions.
Also the purpose of the second initiative was to promote the mechanism for free legal aid to the citizens, for its application in exercising the right to a healthy environment. Unfortunately, the application of FLA mechanism in case of violation of the right to a healthy environment and clean water is impossible in these cases, because the population is illegally settled. Hence, it was appealed for URGENT adoption of the detailed urban plan for this part of the city, thereby enabling the citizens to exercise their fundamental human rights.