Diversity and inclusion in Serbia are being redefined by Centre Living Upright, a pioneering organization based in Novi Sad. For over two decades, it has transformed lives through disability justice, feminist advocacy, and the fight for equal rights.
Empowering Change Through Disability Justice
Founded in 2002, Centre Living Upright grew out of a counseling center originally established by Handicap International. Over the years, it became an independent non-profit organization that not only provides personal assistance and peer support, but also conducts research, publishes studies, and influences national policy to advance equality for all.
Their mission is simple yet powerful: to create a world where every person can live freely, independently, and with full respect for their human rights.
“I do everything I can so that people with different skills can move through the world like anyone else—without labels. Last year we supported a teenage girl with Down syndrome. She dreams of being in an art gallery someday. For us, that belief—that she can—is what matters most.”
— Jelena Sokref, Centre Living Upright
Creating a Culture of Equality and Representation
In 2004, the Centre launched “Equality in Public Speech,” a groundbreaking program that combined research, publications, and advocacy to challenge public perceptions of disability. This initiative also introduced new forms of psychosocial and peer support in Novi Sad, impacting the lives of more than 800 disabled individuals.
But their work extends beyond disability. The Centre addresses interconnected issues such as gender inequality, poverty, and LGBTQ+ rights, highlighting how social exclusion often overlaps.
“Most of our users—and most of our service providers—are women living in poverty. They face multiple layers of marginalization. Some struggle with chronic illness caused by systemic neglect. Despite this, they continue to support others and fight for change.”
— Milica Mima Ruzicic-Novkovic, Centre Living Upright Entrepreneur
From Local Advocacy to National Change
Through persistent advocacy, Centre Living Upright achieved a milestone in 2019—reaching the highest level of personal assistance services in Serbia, setting a model for others nationwide.
Their advocacy contributed to amendments in the Law on Social Protection, ensuring that personal assistance, peer support, and decision-making aid are recognized as fundamental rights under Article 19 of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UN CRPD).
They also pushed for legal reforms in family law and supported 11 local governments across the Vojvodina region to develop Accessibility Action Plans, creating more inclusive cities for all.
Today, with a team of over 35 professionals, the Centre produces impactful media and film projects that bring visibility to the rights and stories of disabled individuals—keeping inclusion at the heart of public discourse.
Sustaining Impact with Reconstruction Women’s Fund
The unwavering support of the Reconstruction Women’s Fund has been key to sustaining the Centre’s work. This partnership provided flexible funding for personal assistance, advocacy actions, documentary production, and even a crowdfunding campaign during times of crisis.
Beyond funding, the Fund has offered strategic guidance, accompaniment, and institutional support, ensuring that the Centre can continue advancing diversity and inclusion in Serbia.
Together, they prove that when grassroots activism meets feminist philanthropy, real transformation happens.
A Model of Collective Power
Centre Living Upright stands as a powerful example of what’s possible when inclusion becomes a shared mission. Their story shows that every person—regardless of ability, gender, or background—deserves not just equality, but dignity, opportunity, and a voice in shaping their future.
