MANS – Network for Affirmation of NGO Sector is a non-governmental organization established in 2000, in Podgorica. MANS was established by five Montenegrin NGOs (Alter Modus from Podgorice, Fortuna from Niksic, Anima - Kotora, Manifesto - Bijelo Polje, and Anima - Ulcinj) and Mercy Corps International.

The aim was to create an organization which will provide expert and technical assistance to other NGOs in the country and work on the creation of proper social environment conductive to the work of the civil society organizations.

In 2003, in partnership with the Ministry of Labour and Social Welfare, MANS created eight 40-minute documentary programmes dedicated to the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) in Montenegro. The programmes were aired on almost all TV stations in Montenegro, as well as on the satellite programme of TVCG.

After two year of research of corruption in the system of spatial planning and development, in October 2005 MANS published a book “Corruption in the System of Spatial Planning and Development – Case Study: Montenegro”.

In the first two years of its work, MANS existed as a sort of resource centre for the other NGOs in Montenegro. During that period, MANS offered technical support in writing and implementation of projects, logistic services in terms of organization of round-table discussions and seminars, internet access and free-of-charge photo-copying services. In addition, two annual surveys of non-governmental organizations’ needs were conducted and recommendations were adopted in terms of further capacity building of NGOs.

In 2003, MANS activities turned their focus to two specific fields: fighting poverty and citizens’ participation in local decision-making processes and accountable local self-government.

Over a relatively short period of time, MANS has emerged as one of the most outspoken critics of Montenegro’s approach to transition, especially in the area of privatization. To what extent can the NGO sector contribute to as painless transition as possible? What did MANS do in that regard in the past? We got the answers to these question from Vanja Calovic, MANS Executive Director. “Undoubtedly, the NGO Sector plays an important role in Montenegrin society. Alas, the actual results and achievement remain small, compared to the efforts we invest”.