Within the framework of the International Year of Rangelands and Pastoralists (IYRP 2026), proclaimed by the United Nations General Assembly, a regional program supporting pastoralism in the Western Balkans is being implemented. The program aims to strengthen pastoral communities, conserve rangelands, and protect the biocultural heritage of transhumance.
The program foresees the organization of Regional, National, and Zonal Gatherings of Pastoralists during the period 19 April – 31 May 2026 across all six Western Balkan countries, culminating in a Concluding Assembly of Pastoralist Representatives.
These activities aim to create spaces for dialogue among pastoralists, local authorities, academia, and other stakeholders, in order to address key challenges facing pastoralism, including livelihood rights, sustainable rangeland management, and access to supportive policies and mechanisms.
RASP, together with The Grassroots Institute (TGI), is one of the initiating organizations of this program, which is implemented in cooperation with municipalities, local organizations, and other partners.
One of the key expected outcomes is the Western Balkans Pastoralists’ Declaration, supporting sustainable pastoralism and the objectives of IYRP 2026.
More information:
www.iyrp.info | https://minoritymap.org/