Activities / Human stories

At the Local Dialogue “Community Drives Change” at the end of 2024, we had the opportunity to peek into the collective imagination of the people of Podgorica. Instead of dry facts and official statements, we witnessed the birth of an ideal world, woven from the wishes and creativity of our fellow citizens.

Forget the usual presentations and speeches. Here, the future of Podgorica was created with bare hands - from colorful paper, string, mirrors, and other unusual materials. Groups of citizens shaped their vision of the perfect city, and each model told a unique story.

One of the first things that caught the eye was the “string of connection.” It was no ordinary string - it connected miniature models of educational, health, and cultural institutions. It was a powerful visual reminder of the unbreakable link that should exist between the pillars of our society. The message was clear: only in synergy can these institutions effectively respond to citizens’ needs and earn their trust. Alongside it shone the “mirror of well-being”, a symbol of a future where institutions are not an end in themselves, but true services for citizens, a reflection of their well-being.

On the other side of the room, an agora - the central square of the ideal Podgorica - came to life. This small but significant space was surrounded by figurines of people in lively discussion. A microphone placed in the center symbolized the voice of the people, a participatory approach to decision-making where every opinion is valued and respected.

Particularly moving was the depiction of equality. Simple straws of different colors became a powerful symbol of respect for diversity - gender, sexual, religious, national, and all others. This vision of the city rejects hate speech and discrimination, building its foundations on mutual respect that, as participants emphasized, must be taught from the earliest childhood, along with the promotion of European values.

The green revolution was taking place on the neighboring table. Wind turbines and solar panels proudly stood as symbols of sustainable energy. Clean rivers, lush parks where children play freely, more space for cyclists, and reduced car traffic - all painted a picture of the priority given to ecology and a healthy lifestyle. Even the “rangers” had their place on one of the models, as guardians of nature, keeping watch over Gorica Hill and other green oases of the city.

Traffic jams were a thing of the past! The ideal Podgorica has efficient and sustainable transportation. A well-organized public transport system, efficient bus network, and - imagine this - trams once again gliding through the streets, reducing pollution. Bike lanes were not just an add-on, but integrated into the vision of a city where the bicycle is one of the main means of transport.

Health and recreation held an important place in the dreams of Podgorica’s citizens. The ball was an omnipresent symbol - more sports fields, access to various sports activities for all generations. The dream of a House dedicated to sports, with courts for all disciplines, felt tangible. And there was a strong emphasis on building a modern city hospital and improving the overall healthcare system.

In these creative workshops, some forgotten values of Titograd were revived - community spirit, solidarity, and strong institutions. Symbols of cohesion, both among people and among institutions, were visible on many of the models. A modern fire station, equipped with the most advanced vehicles, symbolized improved safety for all citizens.

And last but not least, the ideal Podgorica is open to the world. An airport with a landing plane symbolized a city eager to welcome tourists, investors, and new ideas. The vision of modern and functional infrastructure went hand in hand with the preservation of natural beauty.

Looking at all these miniature worlds, it became clear that the ideal Podgorica has communication, compassion, and inclusion at its heart. It is a city that recognizes the richness of diversity, respects the needs of every individual, and is built on the foundations of solidarity, especially towards vulnerable groups. The education of young people and the creation of a society sensitive to the needs of all citizens were key elements of this vision.

Infrastructure and access to services were not seen merely as technical issues, but as a prerequisite for the common good and balance in the community. The openness of institutions toward citizens and a clear vision for the development of the capital were recognized as the key to strengthening human resources.