South East Europe

The break-up of former Yugoslavia has destroyed the structure and the social fabric of the country. It caused ethnically motivated armed conflict in some regions whilst in others, coexistence between different ethnic groups proved to be possible albeit not without tension. In an environment shaped by ethnic conflict, economic crisis and social distress, children and young people have few prospects for the future.

In its intercultural education projects in Serbia, Macedonia and Moldova, Pestalozzi Children’s Foundation helps young people overcome cultural barriers, and encourages them to build a modern democratic society by practising tolerance and open-mindedness. Our projects also provide young adults with the opportunity to acquire competencies and skills to claim their rights.

Education for children on the margines of society

PCF’s second focus lies on providing access to high-quality basic education for children on the margines of society. We assist local partner organisations in developing methodological approaches to support Roma children in school, and in sensitizing teachers and education authorities to their situation. In Moldova, we support the integration of disabled children in mainstream schools and inclusive education for children with and without special educational needs.