As part of the social pillar of the Platform, the Ana and Vlade Divac Foundation organized roundtable discussions in Nova Varoš and Arilje on March 4 and 5, where social mapping reports for these two municipalities were presented. The research aimed to identify the needs of vulnerable groups to enhance local social services and inform social protection planning and the revision of development documents. The mapping study was conducted from March to September 2024.

The events brought together representatives from local government units, social welfare centers, the National Employment Service, pensioners’ associations, and civil society organizations that serve vulnerable populations. Similar social mapping efforts were also conducted in Zrenjanin, as well as the municipalities of Apatin and Sombor.

In Nova Varoš, the study engaged 130 individuals, including 65 single parents and 65 elderly residents from both urban and rural areas. In Arilje, 125 participants were surveyed, comprising 90 single parents and 35 parents of children with developmental disabilities.

The social mapping reports offer targeted recommendations for improving local development plans, aligning with the 2030 Agenda objectives, which emphasize economic growth, social inclusion, and environmental protection.

The findings revealed that single parents face poor living conditions and limited employment opportunities, while elderly residents often struggle with low incomes and inadequate support for long-term care. Although children with developmental disabilities generally have access to basic healthcare services, specialist examinations and developmental counseling centers remain largely unavailable.