SOCIALLY INCLUSIVE APPROACHES FOR IMPROVING ETHNIC INCLUSION AND CONFLICT SENSITIVITY IN MACEDONIA.

In order to develop the model of analysis there is a need for definitions of a variety of approaches and policies with regard to conflict sensitivity and social inclusion. One of the precondition of building multiethnic society is to design public policies that are conflict sensitive and socially inclusive for all the segments of the society. This analysis will focus on policy making process in terms of ethnic inclusiveness and sensitiveness. For the purpose of this report at this stage, we will present the following definitions and explanations related to the concepts of conflict sensitivity, social exclusion and social inclusion: Conflict sensitivity- is an overall term to describe different efforts, methods and tools for working in conflict-prone and conflict-affected areas, with the aim of (1.) reducing the risk that aid unintentionally contributes to the escalation or sustainability of violent conflict ('Do no harm'); and (2.) contributing to peace building. It involves thorough analysis of the context in which an intervention takes place; and of the interaction between the context, the intervention, and conflict or peace dynamics. Social exclusion: Social exclusion is a process whereby certain individuals are pushed to the edge of the society and prevented from participating fully because of their poverty, lack of basic competencies and life-long learning opportunities, or as a result of discrimination. This distances them from job, income and education opportunities as well as social and community networks and activities. They have little access to power and decision-making bodies and thus often feel powerless and unable to exercise any influence on the decisions that affect their daily lives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]