Learning from those who have put the theory of community-based development into practice locally was the focus of a recent event organized by the USAID-funded Economic Development and Growth for Enterprises (EDGE) project.  Over fifty community leaders and activists exchanged ideas and discussed community-based methodologies, focusing on how some can be successfully applied in contexts similar to Cyprus.

By design, community-based approaches to development are meant to empower communities. Beyond being socially sustainable, community-based tourism, for example, can be initiated and operated exclusively by local people. This model of shared leadership serves to emphasize community well-being over individual profit and fosters traditional culture, conservation, and responsible stewardship of shared resources. EDGE has been providing training and technical assistance to community groups across the island in how to apply best practices to local conditions in order to improve the quality of life for visitors and residents and to preserve Cyprus' cultural and natural assets for future generations.

Like all U.S. Government programs in Cyprus, EDGE is aimed at facilitating reunification of the island through encouraging responsible and market-driven economic growth.