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01 September 2010

NCOs in Russia to receive state support

Non-commercial organizations (NCOs) in Russia will receive presidential grants, the total amount of the assistance expected at 1 billion roubles ($32.3 million). The mere fact that NCOs will enjoy such overwhelming support proves that the authorities are aware of the need to stay in contact with the most active and creative part of the society. In all, more than 3,500 bids were submitted for participation in a tender for state financial support. Unlike it was last year, when emphasis was made on anti-crisis initiatives, this time primary importance was assigned to modernization of the North Caucasus- a restive but yet very promising Russian region. That is why bids from Ingushetia, Chechnya and Dagestan were among the first to be approved. If a state spends money on social projects which are not 100% effective, this is definitely a good sign, says Sergei Pyatenko, Professor of Economics... (voice) Today the authorities are first of all interested in innovations, modernization and development of the North Caucasus. And when money is allocated for a project that cannot be described as profitable but still brings positive changes to people, this is good, indeed. However, it is very important to control the expenses and the outcome. It is always easy to take money but to make it work-this is another question. Still, it is important to continue active cooperation between state and NCOs, and with time this process is likely to become more and more effective.   Apart from North Caucasus region, presidential grants will applied to implementation of some innovation projects. Development of high-technology industries guarantees profit and makes Russia’s economy more competitive. Evidently, a presidential grant is one of the most effective means to help talented scholars, businessmen, culture figures. For example, in previous years, grants helped to organize several research expeditions, touring exhibitions, sociological surveys and campaigns supporting the disabled. Such cooperation between state and public organizations should serve as an example for business which is still more focused on profit rather than charity.         President Dmitry Medvedev`s decision to suspend construction of a highway to Saint Petersburg via forest in Khimki outside Moscow amid protests of outraged environmentalists can be viewed as another example of dialogue between state and society. Though the highway project is backed by many people, including those residing in the area, environmentalists and human rights activists are opposed, and their opinion was heard in the Kremlin. Despite confrontation, those who back the project and those who oppose it, are citizens of one country, and their opinion must be taken into consideration before the final decision is made. Compromise is the only way to consent in society.  

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