PASOS Member Organisations

Institute for Contemporary Studies, Tirana, Albania (ISB)

Institute for Democracy and Mediation, Tirana, Albania (IDM)

International Center for Human Development, Yerevan, Armenia (ICHD)

Social Policy and Development Center, Yerevan, Armenia (SPDC)

Economic Research Center, Baku, Azerbaijan (ERC)

Center for Economic and Social Development, Baku, Azerbaijan (CESD)

Belarusian Institute for Strategic Studies, Minsk, Belarus (BISS)

International Forum Bosnia*, Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina (IFB)

Center for Economic Development, Sofia, Bulgaria (CED)

European Institute, Sofia, Bulgaria (EI)

International Centre for Minority Studies and Intercultural Relations*, Sofia, Bulgaria (IMIR)

iDEMO Institute for Democracy*, Zagreb, Croatia (iDEMO)

EUROPEUM Institute for European Policy, Prague, Czech Republic (EUROPEUM)

Association for International Affairs, Prague, Czech Republic (AMO)

PRAXIS Center for Policy Studies, Tallinn, Estonia (PRAXIS)

Institute for Policy Studies*, Tbilisi, Georgia (IPS)

Caucasus Institute for Peace, Democracy and Development, Tbilisi, Georgia (CIPDD)

Center for Policy Studies at the Central European University, Budapest, Hungary (CPS - CEU)

Local Government Initiative Development Limited, Budapest, Hungary (LGID)

Central Eastern European University Network - Transition Studies World Applied Research*, Venice, Italy (CEEUN-TSWAR )

Public Policy Research Center, Almaty, Kazakhstan (PPRC)

Riinvest Institute for Development Research, Prishtine, Kosovo (Riinvest Institute)

Kosovar Civil Society Foundation, Prishtine, Kosovo (KCSF)

Center for Public Policy, Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan (CPP)

Centre for Public Policy PROVIDUS, Riga, Latvia (PROVIDUS)

Center for Research and Policy Making, Skopje, Macedonia (CRPM)

Institute for Development and Social Initiatives (IDIS) "Viitorul", Chisinau, Moldova (IDIS "Viitorul")

Institute for Public Policy, Chisinau, Moldova (IPP)

Expert-Grup, Chisinau, Moldova

Association for Participatory Democracy ADEPT, Chisinau, Moldova (ADEPT)

Institute of Public Affairs, Warsaw, Poland (ISP)

CASE - Center for Social and Economic Research, Warsaw, Poland (CASE)

Center for Rural Assistance*, Timisoara, Romania (CAR)

Institute for Public Policy, Bucharest, Romania (IPP)

Strategia - St. Petersburg Center for Humanities and Political Studies*, St Petersburg, Russian Federation (Strategia)

Jefferson Institute, Belgrade, Serbia

Institute for Public Affairs, Bratislava, Slovakia (IVO)

Research Centre of the Slovak Foreign Policy Association, Bratislava, Slovakia (RC SFPA)

Peace Institute - Institute for Contemporary Social and Political Studies, Ljubljana, Slovenia

International Centre for Policy Studies, Kyiv, Ukraine (ICPS)

European Council on Foreign Relations, London, United Kingdom (ECFR)

Institute for Contemporary Studies, Tirana, Albania (ISB)

The main goal of the Institute for Contemporary Studies (ICS) is to promote and support the development of a democratic system and free market in the country and the integration of Albania in Europe. ICS is currently one of the most active non-governmental organisations in Albania and it is well known in the Balkan region. Its success is attributed to the high quality of its technical capacities, impartiality, civic responsibility, and an outstanding ability to build strategic coalitions and networking.
ICS offers alternative opinions for the development of policies, and advocates for their adoption and implementation. ICS initiates on its own research and policy activities engaging the best Albanian expertise and promotes the participation of interest groups aiming to increase awareness and to build a broad and sound consensus.

Activities: The priority areas of engagement for ICS include economic and social reforms, democracy and the rule of law, public institutional reform, and European integration.

Institute for Democracy and Mediation, Tirana, Albania (IDM)

MISSION & OBJECTIVES
Founded in November 1999, the Institute for Democracy and Mediation (IDM) is an independent, non-governmental organisation working to strengthen civil society, to analyse and improve Albania's integration processes, to assist reforms and the consolidation of good governance and inclusive policy-making processes through expertise, innovative policy research, analysis and assessment-based policy options.

IDM is dedicated to developing a profound understanding of contemporary challenges in order to shape sustainable reforming strategies and public policies in key socio-economic and political development pillars, as well as to advance cost-effective regional approaches in support of intra/cross-sectoral co-operation initiatives of key public and civil stakeholders based on comprehensive research, policy assessment and multidisciplinary analysis. These guiding principles and objectives represent the foundation of the mission, on which IDM forms the framework of its programme priorities, shapes the results of its work, and drives its services and contribution to civil society efforts.

FOCUS AREAS
IDM's choice of activities to achieve its strategic objectives is an effort to go beyond simple one-time delivery projects. They form part of a continuing struggle to strengthen shared values and efficient interactions across the broad spectrum of political and non-political actors in Albania. The Institute has continuously contributed to the advancement of achievements in the following KEY AREAS:

• Consolidation of civil society and promotion of inclusive policy-making processes

• Security Studies and Security Sector Governance

• Regional co-operation, EU and NATO integration processes

• Decentralisation, Local Governance and Community Participation


IDM Structure
The Institute for Democracy and Mediation (IDM) is structured in three core departments (programme areas), as follows:

• Center for Security Studies (CSS)
CSS represents IDM's specialised research unit, whose activities are conducted by experienced researchers and scholars in an effort to promote excellence of research, studies, policy options and security-sector reform processes. The mission of CSS is to advance security studies and research, and develop human capacities at the national and regional level that will serve to address the current challenges for reform, Euro-Atlantic integration and co-operation in the security sector through an educational and problem-solving approach to encourage informed debate on security-sector developments. Security-sector governance and oversight, challenges to EU and NATO integration, as well as opportunities for regional co-operation, constitute the core focus of the Centre.

• Local Governance and Community Development
IDM's vision under this programme area is to promote civic participation in local decision-making processes and to increase the accountability of decision-making actors at the local level vis-à-vis the citizenry. Since the inception of the organisation in 1999, efforts have focused on the improvement of local governance through community development, capacity building for community-based groups, and contributions toward decentralisation processes.

• Research and Innovation Initiative (RII)
The Research and Innovation Initiative (RII) represents a cross-cutting scheme involving in permanent consultations and joint efforts the Institute's policy analysts, programme managers and selected associates with the objective of developing innovative proposals advancing IDM's performance and quality of services under its existing areas of expertise and expanding the focus of work responding to future challenges. In addition to these tasks, RII provides guidance, support and expertise to the Institute's efforts to influence the policy agenda/policy-making processes through the preparation of various policy documents and the design of the framework of instruments necessary for the successful advocacy of policy options among decision-makers, the expert community, interest groups, and the public at large.

International Center for Human Development, Yerevan, Armenia (ICHD)

The International Center for Human Development (ICHD or the Center) was established in March 2000 and is now considered one of the leading think-tanks in the South Caucasus. Through pursuit of its core principles and objectives, ICHD strives to unite the most prominent representatives of the public, scientific, cultural, and business sectors of the region, to strengthen democratic mechanisms and to foster free market values, while simultaneously crafting regional collaboration and economic development strategies for the countries of the Caucasus.

Whatever the issue - conflict prevention or capacity building, anti-smoking campaigns or development of a virtual agricultural market - ICHD's mission is to help improve policy- and decision-making processes through research, analysis, training and advocacy. A key element in achieving this mission is the formulation of unique solutions to the principal issues in economic development and social welfare.

Towards this end, ICHD uses a variety of means to communicate its research and policy perspectives to the broadest possible audiences, especially to critical groups such as policymakers, scholars, and the media.

ICHD strives to:
• strengthen civil society
• contribute to regional integration and peace building
• contribute to the development of the social sector and poverty alleviation
• assist governance and public sector reforms
• develop free market institutions
• develop good practice in local governance
• raise awareness on environmental issues
• raise awareness on primary health care
• promote Armenian culture.

ICHD employs a team of highly qualified analysts and researchers with strong academic backgrounds and substantial experience in both public governance and the private sector.

ICHD has been actively involved in designing and implementing a wide range of projects and initiatives. It has published a substantial number of analytical viewpoints, policy briefs, articles, research papers, catalogues, leaflets and brochures, has trained more than 1000 professionals on a variety of themes, both locally and regionally, has initiated public awareness and participation campaigns, held more than a thousand working meetings and organised numerous international conferences and business forums. All these activities have contributed to building up the reputation of a professional and reliable think-tank, both inside and outside the country.


MISSION: to help improve policies and decision-making through research, analysis, training and advocacy.


PROJECTS
For over five years, ICHD has implemented a wide range of projects and activities.

Key activity spheres:
1. Regional Integration / Peacebuilding
2. Civil Society Strengthening
3. Good Governance & Transparency
4. Economic Development
5. Primary Health Care
6. Culture

Social Policy and Development Center, Yerevan, Armenia (SPDC)

The Social Policy and Development Center (SPDC) is a non-profit, non-governmental organisation, established in 2004 by a group of policy analysts. It is an independent and critical voice that does not depend on government funding and is not affiliated with any political party.

The aim of SPDC is to create a new physical and conceptual space with an explicit agenda to bring new and fresh thinking about social development. SPDC promotes social policy that creates new and better ways to meet needs, solve problems and build better communities, with particular attention to the three core issues of poverty reduction, fighting corruption and social integration. SPDC strives to contribute to the creation of a community that enables the building of a secure, just, free and harmonious society offering opportunities and higher standards of living for all. SPDC believes in the enduring need for strong social policy to fight poverty and corruption, ensure social and economic security, and achieve social justice.

SPDC's objectives are:
• creation of a think-tank space and associated supporting structures and identity
• facilitation of thinking space to create an environment that is shared, safe and creative, and not proscribed by convention, conservatism or cultural constraints
• development of relationships and partnerships with a wide variety of stakeholder groups interested in participating in thinking activities and in promoting shared ideas
• delivery of a series of seminars and meetings, publication and dissemination of papers, concepts and experiences generated by the SPDC
• formation of strategic partnerships with other organisations that can take forward the ideas into action, projects and programmes

SPDC seeks to inform and influence public opinion and to foster public discussion on poverty and social policy, and develops and promotes concrete, practicable proposals for the reform of social programmes at all levels of government. SPDC's work covers a broad range of social policy and development areas, including health, education, social services, and employment services. SPDC also seeks to inform social policy experts and policymakers in other countries on issues and developments in Armenian social policy. SPDC plans to produce brief commentaries and reports, and to contribute articles to the op-ed pages of major newspapers and journals, concentrates on issues important to the country, and carries out research suited to the centre's particular strengths. Seeking a balance between short-term and long-term studies, national and local issues, and applied and theoretical work, SPDC monitors national social policy and assesses its implications at the national and local levels.

SPDC co-ordinates and brings together actors from diverse stakeholder groups, including MPs, political parties, government agencies, intergovernmental organisations, non-governmental organisations and private business, policymakers and opinion-shapers, academics, researchers, specialists, grassroots stakeholders, activists and other interested parties. SPDC provides the space for different actors to meet and work together, and facilitates the creation and management of processes to enable individuals and organisations to engage and interact in new and productive ways.

Economic Research Center, Baku, Azerbaijan (ERC)

The Economic Research Center (ERC) is an independent non-profit research institution established in July 1999. The mission of ERC is to promote the provision of sustainable economic development and good governance.

The goals of the centre are:
1. to spread economic reform and the market economy in Azerbaijan;
2. to develop market values;
3. to supply people and businessmen with the necessary information on law and economics, and to give them accurate information about economic events and legal processes, market mechanisms and market infrastructure activity;
4. to promote reforms, and provide scientific analysis.

Activities
ERC conducts the following activities:
1. provides policy advice to the Government of Azerbaijan;
2. conducts research for other development institutions on key development issues;
3. contributes to national capacity-building and raising public awareness of socio-economic issues.

ERC co-operates closely with International Budget Project USA, the Sasakawa Peace Foundation and Oxfam, and is a member of the Publish What You Pay coalition, campaigning for transparency in the extractive industries sector. A member of the "Improvement of municipal finance" Task Force of the Azerbaijan Republic State Programme on Poverty Reduction and Sustainable Development for 2006-2015, ERC is also a member of the Task Force for the formation of the National Association of Municipalities initiated by the Congress of European Local Self-organisation and Regional Government. ERC has initiated public hearings on the budget in about 30 municipalities, and has devised the methodological material for automatisation of the budget documentation process in Azerbaijan. The Package of Recommendations developed by ERC as the result of the projects "Improvement of the Budget system" and "Azerbaijan's Accession to the WTO; Pros and Cons" are currently used for the development of government policy in both areas.

Publications
For several years, ERC has been publishing the magazine EXPERT (www.ekspert.az), and works to fill the vacuum in the country with respect to statistical information and independent analysis of the economic and social realities of Azerbaijan.

Center for Economic and Social Development, Baku, Azerbaijan (CESD)

The Center for Economic and Social Development (CESD) was established for the purpose of promoting research into contemporary economic and social problems in 2005.

The Center aims to:
(i) organise and promote theoretical and practical research in problems concerning economic and social development
(ii) provide policy advice to the Government of Azerbaijan
(iii) contribute to national capacity-building and raise public awareness of socio-economic issues
(iv) foster co-operation between the public, private, NGO sector, and educational institutions in addressing and resolving economic problems
(v) assist sustainable development, gender development, reducing poverty, achieving Millennium Development Goals and economic and social reforms.

The Center was established upon the initiative of distinguished economists, mostly who have received degrees from Western Universities.

CESD holds regular seminars, conference and workshops on social and economic topics. The Center exchanges research papers with several research institutions abroad.

CESD has achieved success by establishing an international network of academic contacts and promoting co-ordinated research programmes. The centre's work has involved its researchers in studies of social sphere reforms, WTO accession; poverty reduction; MDGs and many other topics in Commonwealth Independent States (CIS) as well as in other transition countries.

PRIORITY RESEARCH AREAS:
Macroeconomic Policy
Gender Development
Competitiveness of Azerbaijan Economy and Economic Growth
Social Sphere
Public Sector Reform
Financial System, Taxation and Fiscal Policy
Energy, Telecommunications, Transport
EU Accession, Regional Cooperation, and Foreign Economic Relations.

Belarusian Institute for Strategic Studies, Minsk, Belarus (BISS)

International Forum Bosnia*, Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina (IFB)

(* Associate member)

International Forum Bosnia (IFB) is a non-governmental organisation founded in 1997 in Sarajevo. It brings together individuals and institutions from Bosnia and Herzegovina and abroad committed to the creation of a future for Bosnia and Herzegovina as a harmonious and united society, based on dialogue, trust and respect, and on optimal practice in the fields of human rights protection, the rule of law, and democracy.

Although IFB's members adhere to the view of the sustainability of Bosnia and Herzegovina as a whole, they believe that the development of the country calls for the formation of a new intellectual community based on dialogue, trust, and respect, within which the totality of Bosnia and Herzegovina will be scientifically examined from diverse perspectives. This community will oppose the existing ethno-national ideologies, which are the underlying causes of mistrust and intolerance as the main generators of social tensions and conflicts.

Through systematic research, the IFB community will identify, develop and promote a new synthesis for Bosnia and Herzegovina, free from fear, hostilities, and tensions. This long-term project includes research at all levels of the society of Bosnia and Herzegovina, especially in geopolitics, geostrategy, history, education, advanced and information technologies, gender issues, regional co-operation, private/public partnership, and other issues related to the efficient transition of Bosnia and Herzegovina towards a harmonious membership in the community of European countries.

The IFB is endeavouring to attain this objective by means of the project "Bosnia: Research and Development", as well as various intellectual gatherings and undertakings (workshops, panels, symposia, conferences, public lectures, exhibitions, and the advancement of knowledge about Bosnia and Herzegovina), and the presentation of significant views on culture, society, scholarship and politics related to Bosnia and Herzegovina and its place in the world (for instance, in the IFB journal 'Forum Bosnae'). IFB's thematic and regional centres, branches, clubs, foundations, and other components should also contribute to this end. In this way, IFB seeks to contribute to a new understanding of the Bosnian unity in diversity from within and from outside. IFB documents result from research that employs analytical and holistic approaches to the major issues facing Bosnia and Herzegovina that have been debated within IFB. These documents are available to the public.

IFB has regional centres in Tuzla, Mostar and Banja Luka, and the following thematic centres:
• Centre for Study of History
• Centre for Strategic Studies
• Centre for Education
• Centre for Student Programmes
• Centre for Technology and Economic Development
• Centre for Gender Studies
• Centre for Regional Cooperation
• Centre for Cultural Heritage
• Centre for Interreligious Dialogue
• Centre for Media and Communications
• Centre for Natural Heritage
• Centre for Modern Linguistics

Center for Economic Development, Sofia, Bulgaria (CED)

The Center for Economic Development is a non-governmental organisation established in September 1997 by a group of economic experts, working together since the autumn of 1996. The goals of the Center are:
1. to contribute to Bulgaria's economic development and achievement of sustainable economic growth in a market economy;
2. to enhance the economic culture and the quality of economics education in Bulgaria;
3. to promote public debate on major economic policy issues and promote co-operation among the public and private sector, educational institutions and non-governmental organisations in addressing economic problems.

The Center accomplishes its goals through:
1. economic research and dissemination of findings;
2. development of economic policy options;
3. analysis of the effectiveness of current economic legislation and production of draft legislation;
4. advocacy of liberal economic ideas and promotion of the experience of developed market economies;
5. promotion of the exchange of ideas among Bulgarian and foreign experts in the fields of economics, management and business;
6. development of Internet applications on the Bulgarian economy;
7. support of economic education and training;
8. organisation of, and participation in, workshops, conferences, seminars and other public events;
9. publications.

Activities: The Center carries out activities in the following major areas: competitiveness of the Bulgarian economy and economic growth; information and communication technologies; small and medium-sized enterprises; infrastructure: energy and transport; social insurance and social policies; taxation and fiscal policy; regional economic development; Bulgaria's EU accession and foreign economic relations; public procurement; economic statistics.

European Institute, Sofia, Bulgaria (EI)

The European Institute, Sofia, is a non-governmental policy centre, specialised in providing research and technical assistance on European Union accession policies. Supporting Bulgaria's accession to the EU is the main focus of EI's activities. EI was founded in 1999, in response to Bulgaria's increased efforts at speeding up the process of preparing for EU membership.

Activities: administrative capacity; accession (regarding the 'aquis communautaire'); local authorities, business and professional organisations; networking; policy research, technical assistance, training, public awareness.

International Centre for Minority Studies and Intercultural Relations*, Sofia, Bulgaria (IMIR)

(* Associate member)

The International Center for Minorities Studies and Intercultural Relations, Sofia, was founded in April 1992 in co-operation with the Centre for the Study of Islam and Christian-Muslim Relations, Birmingham, UK, and the Centre for Research in Ethnic Relations, Warwick, UK. Its activity is focused on interdisciplinary studies and applied research into cultural, ethnic and religious diversity in South-Eastern Europe and in a broader context in the Mediterranean region; encouragement of the preservation, development and integration of each of the cultural communities.

Activities: Projects on emigration, ethno-cultural characteristics, new minorities, scientific forum, policy books, research forum on immigration and scientific issues, EU programme on regionalism.

iDEMO Institute for Democracy*, Zagreb, Croatia (iDEMO)

(* Associate member)

iDEMO Institute for Democracy is a newly formed Croatian non-governmental organisation, which aims to encourage the development and advancement of democracy. It was created in response to the need for greater independent in-depth analysis of democratic processes and the complex issues associated with the promotion of democracy. As a result, iDEMO focuses its activities on research, advocacy, and the development of sound public policy.

While its principal focus is Croatia, iDEMO intends to create projects and extend its activities to other regions of the world, as need arises.

MISSION
The primary goal of iDEMO is to trigger political, economic, and social paradigm shifts, increasing the overall prosperity of the region. In particular, iDEMO endeavours to forge a stronger link between the private, public and NGO sectors; to promote active civil society; to encourage socially responsible public and business sectors; and to build greater confidence in Croatian, European and multilateral institutions.

CORE AREAS OF INTEREST
* Media
* Education
* Economic freedom and entrepreneurship
* Rule of law
* Transparency of political processes
* Decreased marginalisation of minority groups.

OBJECTIVES
iDEMO hopes to obtain social, political, and economic change through the following actions:
* Promotion of progressive social, political and economic openness and inclusion
* Research of relevant and accessible information and analysis
* Advocating for greater transparency and inclusion in political processes
* Endorsement of a more socially responsible business sector
* Exerting pressure on national and multilateral governing bodies and institutions
* Pursuing educational activities and mobilisation of public resources
* Development and strengthening of civil society organisations and networks
* Monitoring and assessment of public processes and policies.

EUROPEUM Institute for European Policy, Prague, Czech Republic (EUROPEUM)

EUROPEUM Institute for European Policy is a non-profit, non-partisan and independent institute. It was founded in 1998 as a civic association on the initiative of the lecturers at the Department of European Studies at the Faculty of Social Sciences, Charles University in Prague. The aim was to provide a platform for young researchers and university students interested in various aspects of European integration to develop their potential and capacity.

EUROPEUM was built with the strong support of the Faculty of Social Sciences and the Tempus programme of the European Commission. Over the past few years, it has evolved into a full-fledged think-tank that undertakes programme, project, publishing and training activities related to European integration matters. In this respect, the organisation was re-named EUROPEUM Institute for European Policy to reflect more its activities.

EUROPEUM focuses on the issues of European integration and on the transformation of political, economic and legal milieu in the Czech Republic arising thereof. EUROPEUM strives to contribute to the long-lasting development of democracy, security, stability, freedom and solidarity across Europe. EUROPEUM formulates opinions and offers alternatives to internal reforms in the Czech Republic with a view to ensuring her full-fledged membership and a respected position in the European Union.

Association for International Affairs, Prague, Czech Republic (AMO)

The Association for International Affairs (Asociace pro mezinárodní otázky, AMO) is a Czech non-governmental organisation that conducts research, and hosts educational programmes in the fields of international affairs, foreign policy and security studies. The Association's primary regional focus is on the Czech Republic and Europe.

AMO (previously CARMS - Czech Association for the Advancement of International Cooperation) was established in 1995, and renamed as AMO in 1999. AMO is currently one of the leading institutions of its kind in the Czech Republic.

It is increasingly important in today's rapidly evolving society to remain engaged in events occurring in all regions of the world. Through a series of projects, AMO influences a wide spectrum of Czech society. One of AMO's long-term aspirations is to spur an interest in international affairs among the Czech population. AMO also facilitates the dissemination of information to the Czech public, so that citizens can form an educated opinion on current international issues.

The AMO agenda is based on two fundamental pillars - education and research - that create a framework for mutually supportive projects.

The primary educational programme is the Prague Student Summit (PSS). PSS is a prestigious meeting of students from all over the Czech Republic, who are actively interested in international relations. In 2006-07, for the first time in history, Czech students, both high school and university, were provided with the opportunity to experience the atmosphere of high-level, diplomatic negotiations of three key international organisations: the United Nations, the European Union and NATO.

The research pillar is represented by the AMO Research Center. Founded in October 2003, the AMO Research Center concentrates on activities dedicated to carrying out research into, and raising public awareness about, international affairs and Czech and European security and foreign policy. In recognition of the absence of such an institution in the Czech Republic, the Research Center has been built to conduct independent and expert research in the field of international relations and to extend co-operation with partner institutions abroad.

PRAXIS Center for Policy Studies, Tallinn, Estonia (PRAXIS)

Praxis Center for Policy Studies, Tallinn, is an independent, non-profit research centre. Its mission is to improve and contribute to the policy-making process in Estonia by carrying out public policy research and fostering public debate.

Activities: labour, social and education policy; public finance, economic competitiveness project, mental health services, NGO statistics, EU projects, ICT, and raising awareness in relation to EU accession.

Institute for Policy Studies*, Tbilisi, Georgia (IPS)

(* Associate member)

IPS, founded in 1992, is focused on promoting contemporary public policy concepts and practices in Georgia, and provides a forum for substantive dialogue between representatives of different branches of the government, the civil sector and the Georgian public.

Specialisation in: regional conflicts, democratic participation and integration of minorities, population migration, internally displaced persons and refugees, European and Euro-Atlantic integration, regional stability and co-operation, models of security arrangements, good governance, harmonisation of centre-periphery relations, strategy for sustainable development and poverty reduction.

Caucasus Institute for Peace, Democracy and Development, Tbilisi, Georgia (CIPDD)

The Caucasus Institute for Peace, Democracy and Development (CIPDD) is a public policy think-tank, specialising in democracy development. CIPDD, a non-profit, non-governmental organisation, was founded in 1992 in Tbilisi, Georgia.

It advocates policy goals such as the development of a vibrant and diverse civil society, effective and accountable public institutions based on the rule of law, and an integrated political community, which at the same time respects and preserves identities of different ethnic and religious communities in Georgia. It also supports Georgia's integration into European and Euro-Atlantic institutions as strategic goals of our society. CIPDD seeks to contribute to the implementation of these goals through producing relevant and high-quality public policy documents, and encouraging a pluralistic and informed public policy debate in Georgia.

ACTIVITIES
Public policy research, publishing and disseminating its results, and organising different forms of debate - professional, political or public - around this work. In addition, CIPDD is involved in advocacy efforts, including public advocacy and lobbying, and training related to its work.

The main geographical area where CIPDD operates is Georgia. However, CIPDD sees great value in co-operation with organisations in countries of the South Caucasus, Black Sea and Balkan regions as well as worldwide.

CIPDD STRATEGY AND THEMATIC PRIORITIES
In 2006-2009, CIPDD's main strategic priorities include:
1. Civil integration in the context of ethnic and confessional pluralism
2. Development of functional and democratic institutions
3. Development of a political dialogue and improvement of the policy development process

CIPDD RESOURCES
www.caucasusjournalists.net - a common Internet page for journalists and researchers, publishers and media of Armenia, Azerbaijan and Georgia. The website was developed within the joint project of the Research Center "Region" (Yerevan), CIPDD and the Azerbaijani Committee for Journalists' Protection (RUH, Baku).

www.pankisi.info - Georgian-Russian analytical website, developed in cooperation with the Centre for Journalism in Extreme Situations

www.partiebi.ge - Georgian political parties' website created within the joint project of CIPDD, the Netherlands Institute for Multiparty Democracy (IMD) and the Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR).

Center for Policy Studies at the Central European University, Budapest, Hungary (CPS - CEU)

Center for Policy Studies, CEU, Budapest, was established at the Central European University in Budapest in March 2000. It performs policy research and advocacy related to issues central to the mission of building open societies. The centre promotes public debate by supporting quality research and disseminating the results in accessible formats. Its aim is to improve the policy environment in the region by diversifying the sources of public policy inputs. CPS research programmes deal with the following areas: good governance, social diversity and equal opportunities, bridging knowledge and policy, globalisation, European integration and policy-making, economic culture, and rural development.
The work of the CPS includes the Policy Documentation Center, a free-to-use online collection of policy papers written by think-tanks and policy analysts from Central and Eastern Europe and the former Soviet Union. Updated every week and organised in six subject headings, the PDC currently holds more than 1,300 papers from more than 60 institutions, offering a unique resource for anyone interested in public policy across the region.

Activities: Projects on the Fifth and Sixth EU Framework Programmes on education and training (FP 5 and FP 6), fellowship programme, masters on public policy, online library.

Local Government Initiative Development Limited, Budapest, Hungary (LGID)

Local Government Initiative Development Limited (LGI Development Ltd.) is a not-for-profit consulting company. LGID's mission is to promote democratic and effective governance, focusing on decentralisation, public administration reform and modernisation of the public sector.

Activities: LGID provides consulting and development services, and manages training and research programmes.

Central Eastern European University Network - Transition Studies World Applied Research*, Venice, Italy (CEEUN-TSWAR )

(* Associate member)

http://www.economia.uniroma2.it/EEBL/teachingExams.asp


In 2002, CEEUN-Transition Studies World Applied Research was established as a network of co-operation among international university institutions and research centres on a wide range of issues and innovative projects. It was promoted by a group of Italian university institutes, departments and research centres: OSSFI- Finance, Banking and Enterprise Observatory, Udine University; ICETS-International Institute for Transition Studies, Luiss University Rome and Trieste University; CNEAS-Center for North East and Adriatic Studies, Venice; ITDO-International Transition Studies Observatory, University Ca' Foscari, Venice. The constitutive meeting took place in Vienna, at the WIFO-Austrian Institute of Economic Research, with the participation of nearly 40 institutions.

Since the launch, more than 400 faculty members, researchers and experts at an international level, belonging to 80 research institutions in 22 countries, have been co-operating in the CEEUN-TSWAR initiative.

The development of programmes has been accompanied by the completion of the network architecture and Transition Studies Review (http://www.springerlink.com/content/1614-4015/), the Network scientific "voice" hosting papers and articles submitted by the partners. The Journal is a quarterly, published in English by Springer Wien New York, and is focused on transition research in central and south-east Europe, the Black Sea and Mediterranean regions, Russia, Central Asia, Ukraine, Caucasus and, more recently, South and Central America and Asia. Starting with the April 2008 issue, there has been a change to the layout, the contents and the structure of the review, which represents the scientific voice of the network. Almost 300 papers were submitted, of which 126 were published in the 10 issues published with Springer-Wien New York from 2004-2007.

The publisher will assist in the future also in efforts to accomplish further market penetration of the journal and to reach an even increasing circle of faculty and specialists in the various research areas engaging the network's scientific efforts. Together with the journal, a special agreement has been established with Springer, reserved for CEEUN-TSWAR's partners willing to author their own books with the publisher. This represents a new opportunity offered to all the faculty, experts and specialists co-operating within our programmes.

CEEUN-TSWAR was founded with the aim of connecting a group of experts and university faculty in a programme of co-operation devoted to research programmes and specialised international postgraduate and doctoral courses. The network has evolved to concentrate on specific areas of research and systematic participation in the international programmes promoted by the EU, World Bank, European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), the Asian Development Bank (ADB), the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD), the Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (CEPAL), the European Investment Bank (EIB), the Inter-American Development Bank (IADB), and the other multilateral and national co-operation action plans and programmes devoted to the emerging regions in transition.

CEEUN-TSWAR, involving now more than 500 internationally well-known members and 95 university departments, institutes and research centres, is engaged in many areas and programmes. The scientific interests and fields cover: Europe and the World, future EU enlargement, the European and international economic framework and impact, where it focuses especially on investment, foreign trade, finance, banking, research, innovation and technology, human capital, development, social policies, insurance, international relations and security, monetary policy, environment and climate, culture and society, juridical and law studies, with a regional approach to the issues, peculiarities and critical challenges.

Furthermore, the network is deeply committed to a wide range of transition issues related to quantitative modelling and analyses of economic, financial, social, cultural, environmental, juridical and strategic studies applied research.

Public Policy Research Center, Almaty, Kazakhstan (PPRC)

PPRC-Kazakhstan is Kazakhstan's first independent public policy think-tank, and was established at the end of 2001. The Center carries out independent research, proposes alternative solutions to current problems, enhances communication between government and the public, and provides resources and support for policymakers and researchers in Kazakhstan and the region. PPRC-Kazakhstan has experience with the organisation of public events, conducting policy studies, creating expert groups, bringing issues to the attention of state authorities, providing training for public administration and NGO representatives.

Activities: Main areas are decentralisation and development of local self-government, analysis of land reform, analysis of economic policy, transparency of budget process and revenues from extractive industries.

Riinvest Institute for Development Research, Prishtine, Kosovo (Riinvest Institute)

http://www.forum2015.org

Riinvest Institute for Development Research began operations in May 1995 as a private non-profit research organisation. Its mission is to promote the modern economic development of Kosovo based on the philosophy of entrepreneurship. Forging partnerships and alliances through "Forum 2015" (a joint initiative of Riinvest and Kosova Open Society Foundation), Riinvest has co-operated with different sectors of society in Kosovo, as well as with different international organisations and partners. Riinvest's research activities and other services are based on international standards.


Riinvest has established good co-operation with different stakeholders, such as the Government of Kosovo, UNMIK, and the business and civil sectors, in order to conduct appropriate research activities.


MAIN ACTIVITIES

• Economic Studies and Analyses

• SME Development

• Local Economic Development

• Market Research

• Consultation on Privatisation and post-Privatisation

• Business and Management Education

• Consulting

• Advocacy

• Business Plans and Feasibility Studies


RESEARCH ACTIVITIES AND OTHER PROJECTS

KCBS/ USAID: Forest Industry - Challenges of Development and Balanced Use, 15 August - 18 January 2008

Millennium Development Goals - MDGs

Kosova Emigration Challenges and Diaspora - Socioeconomic, Organisational and Institutional Aspects (2006-2007)

GTZ-GmbH: "Modernisation of Municipal services" (2006-2007)

National Strategy and Development Plan 2007-2013 (2006)

Improving the Corporate Governance Framework and Transparency in Publicly Owned Enterprises in Kosova (2006)

DELTA III Project (2006-2007)

Fiscal Culture (December 2005)

Economic Viability in Kosova (2005)

DELTA II Project (2004-2005)

Cost evaluation for implementing the Standards for Kosova (July- December 2004)

Technical assistance for the project "Kosova Business Initiative" (July-August 2004)

Spatial Development of Kosova 2004-2015 (UN-HABITAT and MESP)

Labor Market study for Aguerre International - Washington (2004)

Riinvest Summer School on Economics (2004)

Riinvest Summer School on Entrepreneurship (2004)

DELTA Project (2002-2005) DELTA Project - Pilot Phase (2001-2003)

Riinvest Summer Schools (2003/2004) - Riinvest

Summer School in Entrepreneurship (2003),

Riinvest Summer School in Economics (2003)

Training Programme for Environmental Protection (2002)

Business Education Network in Kosova (1999/2000)

Annual surveys with SMEs (1997, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002)

Early Warning System for Kosova (EWS) (2002-present)

Execution of civil courts decisions (2002)

Promoting Economic Development through Civil Society - Phase II (2002-2004)

Survey with 192 Socially Owned Enterprises (2001)

Obstacles for trade, development, investment and competition (2001)

Building up Local Government Institutions (1999-2000)

Assessment of Training Needs for Local Officials in Kosova (2000)

Report on assessment of human rights of children in Kosova (2000)

Post-war Renewal and Reconstruction of Kosova (Strategy and Policies) (1999/2000)

Promoting Economic Development through Civil Society - Phase I (2000-2002)

SME credit demands (2000)

Economic System and Development Strategy (1997-1998)

Kosovar Civil Society Foundation, Prishtine, Kosovo (KCSF)

The Kosovar Civil Society Foundation - KCSF - is an independent, not-for-profit organisation focused on supporting local civil initiatives leading to a strong civil society movement that will promote a democratic culture and will be responsive to the socio-economic needs of Kosovo. The European integration perspective for Kosovo has led KCSF to develop a strong focus on issues related to the EU's framework for the Western Balkans known as the Stabilisation and Association Process. Through the European Integration Initiative (EII), KCSF is committed to support the EU integration process and contribute to make it work.

Founded in 1998, and officially registered in December 1999, the priority mission of KCSF has been to strengthen civil initiatives by providing support through information, services and trainings to NGOs and other relevant civic institutions in all sectors of Kosovar civil society.

While still committed to this aim, KCSF has been directing increasing attention to the process of European Integration, by raising awareness about the EU within society in Kosovo and providing information and analytical tools to professionals working on EU integration issues.

STRATEGIC GOALS

KCSF's strategic goal is to support Kosovo's efforts in the EU integration process. The Stabilisation and Association Process (SAP) and European Partnership requirements for Kosovo form the basis of KCSF's activities. This priority is achieved through a set of programmes ranging from information, education and research, advocacy and provision of analysis, and addressing the specific needs of Kosovo, complementing institutional endeavours to address the EU agenda.

EU integration challenges, common to all countries participating in the SAP, are best tackled at a regional level, and the promotion of regional co-operation is central to KCSF's approach. Participation in regional and international programmes is a strategic goal.


AREAS OF RESEARCH AND ACTIVITIES

• EU Information Resource Centre

With the aim of promoting and increasing the overall knowledge of European affairs with a focus on EU laws, principles, norms and values among the citizens, students and academia, an internal EU Documentation Centre was established within KCSF. The EU library offers an opportunity for those interested in improving understanding of the functioning of the EU, the role and responsibilities of European Institutions, EU law and principles, EU policies, and EU relations with the countries of the Western Balkans and EU relations vis-à-vis Kosovo.

The Centre prepares and distributes an electronic EU Newsletter, which covers issues around the EU Enlargement Agenda towards the Western Balkans, local and regional initiatives for co-operation in the region, coverage of events and activities in Kosovo and the region with regards to the European integration process supplemented with ad hoc analysis and policy recommendations concerning the target areas.

KCSF is also supporting the Implementation of the Government Communication Strategy on European integration. The aim is to inform the wider public about the challenges and obligations of the European integration process, on the role and importance of moving towards the EU, Thessaloniki Agenda, SAP and its instruments for the Western Balkans, in particular Kosovo. In close partnership with the Agency for European Integration (AIE) within the Government, Kosovo's path towards the EU will be closely monitored, and adequate responses prepared. Accordingly, through communication and information dissemination, the scope is to achieve greater awareness, improved understanding and practical knowledge of the challenges and benefits of the EU integration process.


• Improved Knowledge on European Integration

The "Kosovo School for European Integration" (KSEI) is a well established institution which offers a unique programme for education on the idea, historical, political and economic characteristics of the EU, the EU's legislative framework, policies and policy processes, Europe as a global player, and the prospects of the region, in particular Kosovo, for European integration. The main aim of the KSEI is to bring together established and emerging leaders of Kosovo to learn about the European integration process and to transfer the acquired knowledge into their working environment.

KCSF also works to strengthen the professional and institutional capacities of selected civil society organisations in Kosovo to take an active part in the information, education and application of EU-related issues through encouraging sectoral partnerships, sustainable advocacy actions and EU/regional network involvement. KCSF also conducts customised training for civil society organisations, media, political parties and public administration, providing opportunities to critically learn about the background and history of the EU, the standards and requirements for joining the EU, and the institutions and policy processes within the EU that allow them a voice and representation.

• Provision of Analyses related to European Integration Process

Experts' roundtables gather together a limited number of highly qualified experts and stakeholders in the field of European Integration. The objective of these experts' meetings is to generate comprehensive ideas for advancing discussion on the area of European Integration. The roundtables are followed up by a policy recommendation report drafted by the organisers and reviewed by all the participants. The objective is to present the report to decision-makers in Prishtina, the region, and Brussels. Various stakeholders are invited, and their contribution to the debate is welcomed. The format is designed to intensify debate and out-of-the box thinking in an intellectually rigorous environment.

• Co-operation with countries in the Region and the EU

In addition to fulfilment of the Copenhagen Criteria, good neighbourly relations and enhancement of regional co-operation feature among the requirements for the region in order to progress on the path towards EU integration. The political and socio-economic problems facing the countries in the region are similar; hence, close regional co-operation leads to the most viable solutions. Promoting regional co-operation in the Western Balkans plays a central role in the scope of KCSF'S work. KCSF seeks to bring together experts and practitioners in the field of European integration in activities such as workshops, seminars, conferences and lectures. KCSF strongly supports co-operation with civil society organisations, think-tanks and research institutions in Kosovo and abroad, and participation in regional, EC and international programmes.

Center for Public Policy, Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan (CPP)

Mission:
Assistance to development of democracy and open society in Kyrgyzstan via implementation of public policy technologies into daily life.

Since its establishment in 2001, CPP has been implementing projects designed to protect the rights and promote the interests of civil society groups, based on public policy principles (agreement of interests of various groups and improvements in decision-making processes and legal norms). A requisite component of all projects is interaction between all sectors and communication between interest groups.

In addition, CPP participates in the development of the strategic plans of local communities (villages and towns), development based on the principles of agreement between different interest groups and the inclusion of the opinions of all members of local communities. CPP actively participates in the promotion of the idea of centres of local development and the creation of a national development network.

CPP actively works with state bodies (Presidential Administration, State Committee of Kyrgyz Republic on migration and employment, Ministry of Economy, Ministry of Education, local government). Representatives of these structures participate in projects implemented by CPP as partners and experts. CPP works with other structures with regard to the Statute of the Kyrgyz President "On measures to widen co-operation, and normative establishment and implementation of co-operation, between state bodies, local self-government and civil society groups in Kyrgyzstan".

CPP is a member of "AgeNet" network, the National Educational Forum, and International network of centres of education policy.

CPP is a member of the working group for the development of the state programme on the means for regulation of migration processes in Kyrgyzstan up to 2010.

The priority activities of CPP are:
• Assistance to development of civil society institutes,
• Initiating and promoting dialogue between civil society and state, evaluation of state and other projects and programmes,
• Research in the format of public policy and promotion of modern management technologies in daily management at the local and national level,
• Protection of labour migrants, ethnic groups, consumer rights and freedoms,
• Assistance to the development of the education system in the context of changes taking place in Kyrgyzstan as a whole, and in the labour market in particular.

Centre for Public Policy PROVIDUS, Riga, Latvia (PROVIDUS)

PROVIDUS participates in policy framing with its own programmes, expertise and opinion-shaping activities. Priority areas for PROVIDUS include: criminal justice reform, strengthening the rule of law, anti-corruption initiatives, education policy. PROVIDUS hosts an online policy resource dedicated to improving the quality and accessibility of policy debate in Latvia - http://www.politika.lv and http://www.policy.lv

Specific activities include: alternative sentencing, bail supervision programmes, restorative justice, monitoring political party financing, monitoring the use of EU structural funds, administrative remedies, multicultural education.

Center for Research and Policy Making, Skopje, Macedonia (CRPM)

The Center for Research and Policy making (CRPM) is an independent, non-profit research and policy institute, created in recognition of the pressing need for independent, impartial, in-depth analysis of the complex issues involved in promoting stability and prosperity in Macedonia. CRPM aims to produce independent, timely research and challenging policy analysis that will facilitate the monitoring and critical scrutiny of policy-making processes in Macedonia.

The goal of CRPM is to invigorate the public policy process in Macedonia by increasing the information base on socio-economic developments, increasing public and government awareness of pressing socio-economic issues, and contributing to contemporary policy debates through new empirical research, and objective and thorough analysis. CRPM seeks to promote stability, democratisation, full respect for human rights of all groups, and economic development of the country and the region by increasing the awareness in government and the general public of contemporary social and economic issues, and promoting debate on issues of importance to Macedonia.

Activities
1. Through research and comparative analysis of existing resources, legacies, and specific development potentials, an analysis was conducted of the socio-economic situation in two Macedonian municipalities: Shtip and Gostivar. An assessment of the comparative advantages of the two municipalities is planned.
2. Fostered debates on issues that are important for the development and growth of several economic sectors, such as textiles, trade and agriculture.
3. Analysed the current policy measures and the environment for change in the health and pensions policy area, and recommended several solutions to complement the Government's efforts to restructure and commence rationalisation of the public health and pension schemes.
4. Publication of a Citizens' Guidebook to Budget Monitoring. The decentralisation of finances has enhanced the need to increase the accountability of municipal authorities when using public money. For fiscal transparency to be realised, effective public participation is required: the budget process must be opened for interested parties to influence the budget and assess whether government/local authorities undertake what has been planned.

Institute for Development and Social Initiatives (IDIS) "Viitorul", Chisinau, Moldova (IDIS "Viitorul")

The mission of the IDIS is to contribute to the growth of an independent thinking environment in Moldova and in other emerging democracies; to contribute to the strengthening of local and regional governments; to assist the expansion of the civil society in which the citizens act together to express their own interests, to exchange information and to strive for mutual goals and influence government.

Institute for Public Policy, Chisinau, Moldova (IPP)

Institute for Public Policy (IPP), Chisinau, is an independent, non-partisan and non-profit organisation, committed to the values of individual liberty, democratic society, rule of law, and a free-market economy. Through research, publications, policy recommendations and public forums, the Institute provides political and business circles, and the academic community and media leadership, with in-depth analysis of public policy issues confronting our society in order to improve the policymaking process. Soros Foundation Moldova and the Euro-Atlantic Centre from Moldova established the Institute for Public Policy in April 2000.

Activities: EU integration, conflict resolution, education reform, national and regional security.

Expert-Grup, Chisinau, Moldova

Expert-Grup is an independent think-tank in the Republic of Moldova. The think-tank does not have political affiliations and does not pursue commercial aims. Expert-Grup determines independently its institutional strategy. It is specialised in research, consulting and training in the area of social and economic policies.


MISSION
The mission of the Expert-Grup is to contribute to the economic, political and social development of the Republic of Moldova as well as to support consolidation of its international competitiveness. This mission is accomplished by delivering top-quality analytical services, and promoting efficient, transparent and innovative models in economic and social policy.


AREAS OF EXPERTISE
Expert-Grup possesses knowledge and extensive experience in the following areas:

• Development strategies
• Macroeconomics and economic systems
• Global economy and international economic relations
• Economy of the European integration
• Monetary and fiscal policies
• Labour economy, management and business culture
• Consumer behaviour
• Industrial economics
• Economy of health and education


CURRENT ACTIVITIES

• Provide customers with relevant data and analysis on economic and social trends and policies.
• Assist central government and local public authorities in the decision-making process and promote innovative development models.
• Inform general public regarding the most important economic and social trends in the country.


RECENT PROJECTS AND ANALYSIS

Since January 2008: Trade Relations of Republic of Moldova with European Union: Current Situation and Perspectives for Strengthening.

Since January 2008: Analysis of economic situation and development potential of the Gagauzian autonomous territorial unit of the Republic of Moldova.

Since April 2007: State of the Country Report - Contribution of the Civil Society to Development Policies and Good Governance in the Republic of Moldova.

January 2006 - February 2008, in partnership with Association for Participatory Democracy ADEPT: European Union-Republic of Moldova Action Plans - Making Document Accessible for the Public.

July 2006 - June 2007, in partnership with the UNDP: Promoting Social Corporate Responsibility and Launching the UN Global Compact in Republic of Moldova.

December 2006 - May 2007, in partnership with the Czech consultancy company EEIP: Consolidating Economic Relations by establishing a Moldovan - Czech Partnership.

November 2005 - November 2006: National Human Development Report 2006: Quality of Economic Growth and its Impact on Human Development.

Association for Participatory Democracy ADEPT, Chisinau, Moldova (ADEPT)

The Association for Participatory Democracy ADEPT is a non-governmental organisation registered in Moldova in 2000. ADEPT provides expert advice on electoral, political and socio-economic processes in the Republic of Moldova and in the wider region. Its mission is to support active citizens' participation in all spheres of public life.

In pursuing its mission, ADEPT strives to ensure that citizens freely exercise their right to vote, that they make an informed choice in elections, and that their vote counts; encourages citizens to hold elected officials accountable and to this end informs citizens about the activities of public institutions; and mediates between citizens and political parties to ensure that the latter act in the interest of the former, and are able to address issues important to the people.

ADEPT carries out these activities within three key programmes:

* governance monitoring,
* elections, and
* political parties.

Since 2000, ADEPT has implemented about 30 projects funded by various donor institutions, such as the National Endowment for Democracy, Soros Foundation, Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs, European Commission, US Embassy in Moldova, British Embassy in Moldova, United Kingdom's Department for International Development (DFID), Eurasia Foundation, and Westminster Foundation for Democracy.

Institute of Public Affairs, Warsaw, Poland (ISP)

The IPA is a non-partisan public policy think-tank, one of the major public policy centres in Poland. The IPA is a source of expertise for politicians, the media, and the non-profit sector, making a strong contribution to Poland's public life. The IPA was launched in 1995 to provide a forum for informed debate on social and political issues. It conducts research as well as societal analysis and presents policy recommendations.

Activities: educational, public administration, migration programmes, eastern programmes, minorities, European referendum, research, INA co-operation.

CASE - Center for Social and Economic Research, Warsaw, Poland (CASE)

CASE - the Center for Social and Economic Research is an independent non-profit institute founded on the idea that research-based policy-making is vital for the economic welfare of societies. Established in Warsaw in 1991, CASE today is an internationally renowned think-tank drawing on the talents of prominent economists and driving the creation of a network of partner institutions in transition countries. CASE carries out policy-oriented research and development assistance projects, specialising in the transition process in Central and Eastern Europe, the Transcaucasus and Central Asia; European integration; and the world economy.

MISSION
The mission of CASE is to provide objective economic analysis and to promote constructive solutions to the challenges of transition, reform, integration and development in order to improve the socio-economic well-being of societies.

CASE has an extensive track-record of providing high-level policy advice and technical assistance to governments, international organisations, and NGOs. CASE differentiates itself from other think-tanks and development consultancy companies by:

• basing its policy advising activities on the intellectual foundations and activities of a leading European think-tank
• drawing on a network of experts with extensive practical experience in the Central and Eastern European transition experience
• working directly with colleagues in subsidiary organisations in the former Soviet Union to successfully implement complex projects that require a balance between international and local expertise and experience


ACTIVITIES
CASE relies on its pool of internationally recognised economic experts and Warsaw-based staff to carry out the following activities:

• Conduct independent, high-quality research and analysis
• Disseminate economic knowledge and the results of CASE research
• Advise governments, international organisations, and the NGO sector in strategies for economic reform in terms of monetary and fiscal policy, price liberalisation, privatisation, liberalisation of foreign trade, and social policy
• Inform and encourage public debate through conferences, seminars, academic internships, and study visits
• Support the growth and independence of the NGO sector in post-communist countries.

RESEARCH AREAS
• European integration
• systemic reforms
• macroeconomics
• economic forecasts
• public finance
• tax systems
• monetary policy
• private sector development
• labour markets
• international trade
• innovation and technology
• social policy
• capital markets
• health economics
• education

PUBLICATIONS
• CASE Network Reports
• CASE Network Studies and Analyses
• CASE-CEU (Central European University) Working Papers
• E-briefs
• Polish Economic Outlook
• Third Stage of Reforms
• BRE Bank - CASE

Center for Rural Assistance*, Timisoara, Romania (CAR)

(* Associate member)

CAR started activity in January 2002, as a non-governmental organisation set up by the Open Society Foundation Romania. CAR is a member of the Soros Open Network (SON), located in Timisoara, Romania.
Mission: To create and consolidate local capacities for the sustainable development of rural communities.

Activities: consultancy, assistance, training, studies, strategies in the field of rural development.

Institute for Public Policy, Bucharest, Romania (IPP)

The goal of IPP Romania is to assist the development of Romania's democratic process through extensive primary research, fostering open discussion and unbiased public policy analysis.

Strategic areas of interest: public administration reform (through key domains such as the reform of public finances, the reform of public servants and public services); electoral processes (political party finances and electoral management); corruption; conflicts of interest.

Strategia - St. Petersburg Center for Humanities and Political Studies*, St Petersburg, Russian Federation (Strategia)

(* Associate member)

St Petersburg Center for Humanities and Political Studies "Strategia" is an active civil society organisation, established in 1993 by a group of deputies of the City Council, activists of democratic parties, journalists and businessmen, with the purpose of encouraging the establishment and development of civil society structures in St Petersburg and other regions of Russia.

Activities: Development of Human Rights Commission institute and other governmental and civil society organisations engaged in human rights protection, development of education in the field of human rights in Russia's regions. "Transparent Budget" programme, "Corruption Prevention by means of Civil Society", "Public Policy Development", "Local, National and Global Levels" programmes.

Jefferson Institute, Belgrade, Serbia

The Jefferson Institute is an independent research and education organisation. Its mission is to inform decision-makers with alternative policy solutions. Inspired by Thomas Jefferson's challenge to pursue truth, wherever it may lead, the Jefferson Institute believes Jefferson's vision of policy devoted to democratic ideals and the free flow of commerce is more necessary than ever to promote peaceful and productive relations among nations and within societies.

The Jefferson Institute delivers focused, original policy analysis from field-based teams with extensive and nuanced knowledge of local politics and culture. Striving to build local capacity for applied research throughout the communities where the researchers work, the institute's research blends cutting-edge methodologies with the unique insights of associates to supply clients with analyses of exceptional depth and value.

The Jefferson Institute is a non-partisan, not-for-profit corporation. Its work focuses on four areas:

Security:
The global informal economy is the circulatory system of non-state threats to global peace and stability. However, little is known about the mechanisms of smuggling networks, or how to redirect their entrepreneurial energies toward the white economy. The Jefferson Institute approaches the issue from all levels - border community case studies, regional and global process tracing of smuggling networks, and macro policy analysis. The Jefferson Institute also supports decision-makers in security-sector reforms - to better face the challenges of modern threats. Innovative research and analysis is undertaken to better identify strategic priorities, and the practical steps for success in policy and programming.

Competitiveness:
Healthy and thriving trade relations are key instruments for growth and development around the world, yet many poor countries have yet to maximise their exports to other nations. Innovative policy can help close this gap between real and potential trade. The Jefferson Institute analyses the competitive potential of developing economies and proposes alternative strategies for sustainable growth. Strong emphasis is placed on microeconomic analyses of sectors, products, and firms, to accompany more traditional macroeconomic research.

New Faces in Foreign Aid:
The increasingly complex nature of international development is driving public and private aid agencies to seek new approaches and partnerships. To keep policy-makers up to speed, vigilant analysis must detect shifts in traditional strategic, behavioural and organisational paradigms. The Jefferson Institute assists decision-makers in grasping these changes with novel methods of monitoring and evaluating project success, and by attention to community-level analysis.

Capacity-Building:
The Jefferson Institute works to build local capacity in its core area: applied policy research. For local think-tanks and public policy institutes, achieving the highest standards of intellectual rigour, professional independence, and institutional sustainability is a complex and uneven process. By nurturing efforts to meet these standards, the Jefferson Institute helps foster the growth of democracy while strengthening its global network of research partners.

Institute for Public Affairs, Bratislava, Slovakia (IVO)

The Institute for Public Affairs (IVO), Bratislava, is an independent public policy research institute founded in 1997. The Institute's research programme is conducted by a core staff of resident scholars and policy analysts, augmented by non-resident policy experts from a wide range of Slovak institutions. IVO's mission includes analysis of social, political, economic, foreign policy, legal, and cultural issues of public interest; research on public policies and their consequences, publication of findings, and to make practical recommendations for improved government policy.

Activities: Research programmes on EU integration, public opinion, civil society, domestic politics, minorities, development; online publications.

Research Centre of the Slovak Foreign Policy Association, Bratislava, Slovakia (RC SFPA)

The Research Centre of the Slovak Foreign Policy Association (RC SFPA) is a non-profit organisation, and was the first organisation in Slovakia to point to the importance of finding a domestic consensus on foreign policy issues, to stress the interrelation of domestic and foreign policies and insist on a value-based, inclusive and expert approach to the key issues facing Slovak politics. RC SFPA was established in 1995 as a research and policy development unit of the Slovak Foreign Policy Association (SFPA). SFPA itself was founded in August 1993 as an open discussion forum on international affairs and the Slovak foreign policy. In 2003, RC SFPA was established as an independent think-tank. Its primary mission is to contribute to the development of policies that assist the progress of Slovakia as an open and democratic society able to meet the challenges of a global environment.

RC SFPA's activities can broadly be summarised as research, debate and publishing. Analysts working for the RC SFPA engage in number of research and policy development programmes and projects, with a direct impact on Slovak public policies.

Secondly, RC SFPA runs a number of formats designed for expert and wider public debate. These formats range from international conferences, held in Bratislava, with panellists and audiences comprising top policymakers and experts, to smaller formats such as discussions with students and local policy-makers in more distant regions and rural parts of Slovakia (e. g. network of debate clubs).

Finally, RC SFPA publishes three periodical publications, and a number of non-periodical publications. The periodical publications consist of Zahraničná politika (bimonthly topical publication on key issues facing Slovakia's foreign policy), International Issues (quarterly comprising academic articles and policy briefs) and Yearbook of Slovak Foreign Policy (annual publication). The non-periodical publications cover a wide range of themes and issues to broaden expert and public knowledge - and many of them are currently being used as study materials on Slovak schools.


PROGRAMMES

European Studies:
The programme focuses mainly on EU enlargement and institutional reforms, EU foreign and security policy, accession process and EU membership of the Slovak Republic as well as common and sectoral policies of the EU.


International Security:
The main research areas in the programme are NATO enlargement and transformation; security policy; fight against international terrorism; the Middle East, reform of Slovak Republic armed forces, and arms trade.


Central and Southeastern Europe:
The emphasis in this programme is on the relations between Slovakia and its neighbours, regional co-operation, Visegrad Four countries, development in the Western Balkans, and Slovak policy towards Balkans countries.


Eastern Europe:
The main focus areas of the programme are Slovak relations with Russia, Belarus, and the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS), domestic and foreign policy of eastern European countries and their relations with NATO, EU, OSCE and with countries of Central and Eastern Europe. The programme also deals with energy policy and security.


Economic Policy and Development Aid:
The research is carried out mainly in the area of co-operation among the Visegrad Four countries and among EU members, Western Balkans, Ukraine and Russia. Important components are regional development, cross-border co-operation, and the future of EU economic and cohesion policies.

Peace Institute - Institute for Contemporary Social and Political Studies, Ljubljana, Slovenia

The Peace Institute, founded in 1991, is a non-profit research organisation dedicated to contemporary social and political studies and interdisciplinary research in the fields of sociology, anthropology, political science and philosophy. The Institute's activities are not limited to the critical assessment of social phenomena, but also include active intervention. We combine academic research with practical education and strategic counselling in various fields of politics and public activities.

Activities: Basic and applied research in areas of migration, media studies, citizenship, xenophobia, gender, family, social and cultural policies; policy fellowships; public debates, conferences, publishing and networking with other institutes and NGOs.

International Centre for Policy Studies, Kyiv, Ukraine (ICPS)

International Centre for Policy Studies (ICPS), Kiev, is an independent think-tank whose aim is to promote the introduction of public policy concepts and practices in Ukraine, and to facilitate the establishment of relevant institutions, as a prerequisite for sustainable and irreversible democracy in Ukraine and other post-Soviet countries.

ICPS fulfils this mission through assisting the government and the public-at-large in raising overall awareness of the need to analyse strategic decision options, to research the possible implications of adopting or rejecting each policy option, and to recognise competing interests.


Activities: As a policy think-tank, ICPS concentrates on three main areas:
1. Policy research and independent policy analysis;
2. Public awareness and publications; and
3. Functioning as a resource centre for the government and NGOs.

All ICPS activities result in four main categories of products:
Regular publications representing independent analysis of policy issues, including: Quarterly Predictions, Political Commentary, Regional Trends, Economic Statistics, and Consumer Confidence. These publications are a unique public good for Ukraine;
Projects aimed at piloting public policy procedures in the functioning of government institutions and NGOs at both the national and the local level;
Public policy campaigns that include raising public awareness and conducting consultations with stakeholders on important policy issues;
Training government officials, NGOs and donor institution staff on policy analysis, and transferring experience in Ukraine and other post-Soviet countries.

European Council on Foreign Relations, London, United Kingdom (ECFR)

The European Council on Foreign Relations (ECFR) is the first pan-European think-tank. Launched in October 2007, its objective is to conduct research and promote informed debate across Europe on the development of coherent and effective European values based foreign policy.

ECFR has developed a strategy with three distinctive elements that define its activities:

* A pan-European Council. ECFR has brought together a distinguished Council of over one hundred Members - politicians, decision makers, thinkers and business people from the EU's member states and candidate countries - which meets twice a year as a full body. Through geographical and thematic task forces, members provide ECFR staff with advice and feedback on policy ideas and help with ECFR's activities within their own countries. The Council is chaired by Martti Ahtisaari, Joschka Fischer and Mabel van Oranje.

* A physical presence in the main EU member states. ECFR, uniquely among European think-tanks, has offices in Berlin, London, Madrid, Paris and Sofia. Our offices are platforms for research, debate, advocacy and communications.

* A distinctive research and policy development process. ECFR has brought together a team of distinguished researchers and practitioners from all over Europe to advance its objectives through innovative projects with a pan-European focus. ECFR's activities include primary research, publication of policy reports, private meetings and public debates, 'friends of ECFR' gatherings in EU capitals and outreach to strategic media outlets.

ECFR is backed by the Soros Foundations Network, the Spanish foundation FRIDE (La Fundación para las Relaciones Internacionales y el Diálogo Exterior), Sigrid Rausing, the Bulgarian Communitas Foundation, and the Italian UniCredit group. ECFR works in partnership with other organisations but does not make grants to individuals or institutions.

ECFR's research work is organised around the following four programmes:

• Institutions, Money and Power

How can the European Union and its member countries increase their global reach? How should the EU pursue its interests and values through trade and aid policies? Can European civilian and military capabilities be deployed with greater effectiveness in the world's conflict zones?

• Russia and Wider Europe

Can the EU recast its relationship to its eastern neighbours and a resurgent Russia? What can be done to use the prospect of EU membership and economic, military and political cooperation to promote democracy, human rights and the rule of law, resolve frozen conflicts and lessen the threat of energy dependence?

• Asia

This programme explores how the EU could pursue more effective strategies in its relations with Asia, engaging China, India and Japan on global issues like energy and climate change; development and human rights; nuclear proliferation and global governance. The programme also publishes as a joint Asia Centre and ECFR project a bi-monthly analytical survey of Chinese news and debate entitled China Analysis.

• Democracy, Human Rights and Justice

How can the EU and its member states best promote the values of democracy, human rights and justice across the spectrum of Europe's engagement with the world? What is the relationship of these principles to other objectives of European foreign policy, and what is the most effective way to support their further expansion? As part of an ECFR-FRIDE joint project, various case studies have been published on European promotion of democracy and human rights.