The action “Our Forests – Our Mirror” was carried out in the Halj area in Rožaje as a joint activity of the OSCE and EkoGard, with the aim of cleaning forest areas, raising environmental awareness, and strengthening cooperation between the local community and international partners.

As part of the initiative, a meeting was held with OSCE Ambassador Jan Haukaas, during which environmental protection challenges in Rožaje were discussed and directions for future cooperation were agreed upon.

Context & Problem

The forest area of Halj represents an important natural resource for Rožaje, but it has long been exposed to irresponsible waste disposal. In addition to the environmental problem, there is a clear need for stronger cooperation between local initiatives and institutions that can contribute to systemic solutions and a long-term approach to nature protection.

Action Objectives

  • remove waste from the Halj forest area
  • actively involve citizens and volunteers in nature conservation
  • raise awareness about responsible attitudes towards forests
  • establish and strengthen cooperation between EkoGard and the OSCE
  • open space for future joint environmental initiatives

Implemented Activities

  • meeting between EkoGard representatives and the OSCE Ambassador, with discussions on environmental conditions and cooperation opportunities
  • agreement on basic directions for joint action in ecology and civic engagement
  • coordination and planning of the field action
  • gathering of volunteers and participants
  • implementation of the forest clean-up action in Halj
  • collection and proper disposal of waste
  • public communication of the action’s message

Results & Impact

  • part of the Halj forest area successfully cleaned
  • significant quantities of waste removed
  • local volunteers and citizens actively involved
  • direct high-level dialogue established with the OSCE
  • foundations laid for long-term cooperation on environmental and civic initiatives

Stakeholders & Partnerships

The project was implemented in cooperation with the OSCE – Mission to Montenegro, with operational implementation by EkoGard and the support of the Očistimo Rožaje initiative.
The meeting with the OSCE Ambassador represented a key element in strengthening institutional cooperation.

Sustainability & Follow-up

The action “Our Forests – Our Mirror” represents an initial step towards continuous cooperation between EkoGard and the OSCE, with plans for new environmental actions, educational activities, and joint initiatives focused on the protection of natural resources in Rožaje.

Action Title: Our Forests – Our Mirror
Implementation Date: May 29, 2025
Location: Halj, Rožaje
Target Group: Local volunteers, citizens, youth
Organizer: OSCE – Mission to Montenegro
Implementer: EkoGard
Partner: Očistimo Rožaje
Status: ✔ Implemented