Rights defenders' programme on harmonization of interethnic relations is over in North Ossetia

The joint programme of the HRC "Memorial" and the "Civil Assistance" Committee entitled "Harmonization of Interethnic Relations through Promoting Minor Businesses" was finalized in the Prigorodny District of North Ossetia with a workshop for educators, a roundtable in the employment centre and graduation of trainees in the "Kurtata" Business Centre, said Yulia Chardina, the programme director.

Under the terms of the contest, for the three participants, whose business plans have scored highest, equipment will be bought as needed to run their businesses. The remaining bidders will also receive financial support.

Summing up the programme, Ms Chardina has treated project as very successful. Almost all the projects implemented earlier are progressing quite successfully, she said, explaining that together with the employees of the Business Centre, she conducts periodic monitoring of the running projects. She named the production of souvenirs, beekeeping and agriculture as the most successful ones.

"I hope that we'll continue our activities. In the near future we plan to open such a centre in the Sunzha District of Ingushetia," she said.

The authorities of North Ossetia are also positive in assessing the project.