As Albania heads to the polls today to elect 140 members of its Parliament, the #IDecide campaign marks the culmination of four weeks of grassroots youth engagement led by the Young European Ambassadors (YEAs). Launched at a pivotal moment, the campaign set out to empower young Albanians to participate meaningfully in the electoral process and make informed decisions at the ballot box.
Throughout the past month, YEAs in Albania have been on the move visiting towns like Fier, Vlora, and Rrëshen where they connected directly with young people through workshops, open discussions, and interactive sessions. These events created space for honest conversations about how and where to vote, what civic rights young people hold, and why their voices matter in a democracy – topics that often remain unclear for first-time voters.
“The #IDecide campaign is all about encouraging young people to take an active role in the electoral process,” Stjuart explains. “Through workshops and conversations, we’re working to fill an important gap: many young people still don’t have access to basic information like where and how to vote, what their rights are, or even why their participation matters.”
By making information more accessible and relatable, the campaign aims to empower young people to feel confident and make informed decisions. For Stjuart, now in his second year of involvement, the experience continues to be just as eye-opening. Each visit and each conversation bring fresh insights into the challenges young people face when it comes to civic participation.
“Being a Young European Ambassador makes this work even more meaningful,” he shares. “The campaign reflects what YEAs stand for- bringing Europe closer to young people and helping them realize that their voice truly matters.”
Across towns and conversations, certain themes have come up time and again: misinformation, distrust in institutions, and doubts about whether one vote can make an impact. But once space for dialogue is opened, perspectives begin to shift.
As someone with a passion for digital communication, Stjuart’s workshops have focused especially on the role of social media during election periods. He’s been helping young people understand how to identify misinformation, participate in constructive dialogue, and use their online presence to motivate others to engage.
“In today’s fast-paced digital environment, being well-informed online is just as important as being informed offline,” he emphasizes. “Many young people told me they had never really thought about the impact of what they post until now, and that’s a conversation I’m glad we’re starting.”
For Stjuart, the most powerful moments come when awareness sparks change. “When someone tells me, ‘I didn’t know this before,’ or ‘Now I feel like I can make a difference,’ that’s everything.”
Support from the European Union Delegation in Albania has added institutional weight to the campaign, showing young people that their concerns are being heard not only by their peers, but also by national and international actors invested in strengthening democratic participation.
As the #IDecide campaign wraps up today with the nation casting its votes, the energy and commitment of young people like Stjuart send a clear message: with the right tools and support, youth are not only ready but eager to shape the future of their democracy.
As of January 2025, the European Digital Innovation Hubs (EDIHs) Network has expanded to include new hubs across the Western Balkans.
The expansion of the network is part of the EU’s broader Growth Plan for the Western Balkans, aimed at helping the region integrate with the EU Digital Single Market. By joining the EDIH Network, beneficiaries in the Enlargement region gain early access to digital tools, knowledge-sharing platforms, and funding opportunities even before formal EU accession. The benefits will be tangible, especially for SMEs, startups, and public institutions striving for digital and green transformation.
“We are helping both public institutions and businesses to use digital tools that solve real problems like streamlining services for reaching new markets. We are making it easier for them to connect and work across the borders, just like the digital single market is meant to do.” says Prof.Dr. Slavica Tomović, Assistant Professor at the Faculty of Electrical Engineering of the University of Montenegro. This development marks an important step for the European Union’s digital transformation efforts in the Enlargement region and opens exciting new opportunities for local businesses, public institutions, and startups to become part of Europe’s thriving digital ecosystem.
European Digital Innovation Hubs (EDIHs) act as one-stop shops that help companies and public sector organizations respond to digital challenges and enhance their competitiveness. They offer a range of services including access to technical expertise, training and skills development, advice on financing, and the opportunity to “test before invest” in digital technologies. Furthermore, they support the green transition by helping organizations implement sustainable and circular digital practices.
Backed by the Digital Europe Programme (DEP), EDIHs are co-financed—50% from the DEP and the rest from national, regional, or private sources. Their mission is to ensure that no region is left behind in the digital age.
In North Macedonia, the INOFEIT EDIH is the country’s first official European Digital Innovation Hub. Built on the strong foundations of INNOFEITDIH, it brings together academia, industry, business associations, and public stakeholders. Over the next four years, INOFEIT EDIH will provide free digital services worth €2 million to SMEs and public sector organizations with its key services.
“In today’s rapidly evolving digital landscape, staying ahead with the latest technologies is essential for businesses and public organizations. North Macedonia’s integration into the EU Digital Innovation Hubs Network through INNOFEIT EDIH provides a unique opportunity for SMEs and PSOs to enhance their competitiveness and drive societal progress.” says Dimitar Taskovski from North Macedonia’s INNOFEIT.
In Kosovo, the consortium managing the DIG-4K project is comprised of several actors representing civil society, business and academic sectors, Innovation and Training Park (ITP) as Lead Partner and Edutask; Makerspace Innovation Center Prizren, UBT University, Ukshin Hoti University, QUANTIX, ALT SHPK, CACTTUS Education as implementing partners and the Ministry of Economy, Kosovo and Kosovo Research and Education Network (KREN) as associated partners.
“Kosovo’s integration into the EU Digital Innovation Hubs (EDIH) Network offers a transformative opportunity for businesses, educational institutions, and public sector stakeholders. Through the DIG-4K project, beneficiaries will gain access to expertise, resources, and funding to accelerate digital transformation.” says Arsim Nimanaj from GIZ Kosovo, further providing concrete information on how beneficiaries can benefit from this membership, “Advisory services will help businesses and institutions implement digital strategies, optimize processes, and enhance competitiveness. The Digital Skills Academy will bridge skill gaps through training, certifications, and hands-on workshops, ensuring a future-ready workforce. The Tech Access and Testing Lab will provide a space for innovation, enabling businesses to prototype and test AI, cybersecurity, and green technologies. Funding and investment support will guide stakeholders in securing financial resources, enhancing their ability to develop and sustain projects. International networking and collaboration will open access to global markets and partnerships, strengthening Kosovo’s digital ecosystem. Additionally, efforts to scale and sustain successful digital solutions will ensure long-term impact through visibility, market reach, and continuous evaluation,” Nimanaj concludes.
Digital transformation starting from AI-powered agriculture to smart public services, fostered by the hubs that are now part of the EDIH Network will support inclusive growth, sustainability, and prepare the region for the future of work and business.
For local organizations in the Western Balkans, joining the EDIH network means being part of a Europe-wide movement toward innovation, efficiency, and sustainability.
More information on the European Union’s Growth Plan for the Western Balkans can be found here.
By: Rixhers Dengo, Melisa Dorda, and Debora Kolgega
Ever wondered how architecture can go beyond just designing buildings and truly impact the way we live and interact? Or how the spaces we create today can shape the cities of tomorrow?
Let’s explore how we can make architecture that speaks to both the environment and the people it serves, and how we can be part of shaping cities that embrace innovation, responsibility, and inclusion.
Why architecture matters: Reflections from the SHARE Forum
This February, we walked into the SHARE International Architecture Forum in Albania expecting to hear about buildings, concrete, glass, shapes, and beauty. But instead, we were met with a mix of ideas: tradition and digital futures, design and the need to address climate change. Held in the Pyramid of Tirana, an odd building itself, the forum brought together professionals and thinkers, raising more questions than it answered.
This is where things became interesting. One of the biggest takeaways from SHARE was how many people are rethinking architecture beyond just how it looks. We heard about new materials, reusing old buildings in new ways, sustainable housing, and designing for everyone, real efforts to balance design with environmental and social responsibility.
There were inspiring examples: public projects that focused on community needs, restorations that respected local history while adding new ideas, and construction systems made to adjust to changing climates. Of course, some challenges were still present. While sustainable ideas were often discussed, their implementation sometimes felt basic or limited by things like tight budgets, slow policies, or market-focused views.
But this doesn’t erase the effort. It shows we’re in a time of change, and SHARE helped us see both the progress made and the road ahead.
What inspired us at SHARE?
One of the most powerful insights was the idea of designing spaces that truly respond to the needs of the people who use them. Architects are increasingly focused on resilience, integrating eco-friendly materials and nature into urban environments. Yet, there’s still much to consider about power, says Rixhers: “Who decides what’s sustainable, and who shapes the future”?
These questions brought us back to the core challenge of architecture, creating spaces that last and serve communities, while respecting both heritage and innovation.
Debora says that: “Being young and drawn by nothing but passion, such activities often raise the desire and optimism for new opportunities. So I saw this opportunity as an introduction to the result, to the beautiful side of this profession, where after the challenges and many steps during the design, not only in the professional aspect but also as individuals who live it daily in individual forms in the surrounding environment.”
Meanwhile, it is worth mentioning one of the speakers, Davide MACULLO, a prominent architect with projects implemented in the Balkans who is known for the creative living world that brings him closer to the environment by organically intertwining, during a coffee break where he quoted to us three as young architects: “The beginning will always be difficult everywhere, and it doesn’t matter where you come from or who has paved your path before you, try every experience, never say no to a new challenge and give everything for what you believe in while you are young, ability and work comes with experience and are therefore acquired along the way.”
Davide Macullo/ downloaded from share-architects.com
Why should YEAs even care?
As young European Ambassadors, we have a unique opportunity to shape the spaces we live in and the communities we build. Architecture is not just about professional designs made by experts in firms or city councils, it’s about the spaces we experience every day: the walk to the bus, the café we meet friends at, or even the way our apartment buildings feel. If we are serious about sustainability, community, and democracy, it’s time we start engaging with the environments that impact our lives. Architecture is a form of soft power; it can include or exclude without a single word, and it shapes how we participate in our communities.
This is why architecture is no longer just a creative profession, it’s a political responsibility. From addressing climate change, where buildings account for over 30% of global CO₂ emissions, to designing inclusive public spaces that foster freedom and resilience, architecture touches everything. It defines who feels safe, seen, and welcomed, and it plays a key role in shaping the identities of our communities. Young people must be at the forefront of creating environments that work for all, from those with different abilities to diverse backgrounds.
How do EU-funded projects benefit our communities?
One of the most exciting parts of being a YEA is the ability to connect what we learn in professional spaces like SHARE to actual transformation on the ground. That’s why we wanted to highlight a few incredible EU-funded architecture and urban development projects in Albania and the region that prove how design and European values go hand in hand.
The Vlora Waterfront project really changed the way people experience the city. What used to be just a neglected stretch of coastline is now a lively, pedestrian-friendly thanks to EU funding and a collaboration with international architects. It’s become one of the few places in Albania with real, modern touristic infrastructure, and you can feel its impact.
Regeneration of the waterfront supports the current touristic boom in Albania as Vlora is one of the few places where proper touristic infrastructures. Where local businesses are thriving, young people finally have a public space to hang out in by the sea, and it’s now much more accessible to everyone, not just tourists.
College of Europe, Tirana Campus – Building a space for young minds
Courtesy of MIR, Designed by Oppenheim Architects
The new Tirana campus of the College of Europe isn’t just an academic expansion, it’s a serious investment in the next generation of decision makers, especially young architects like us who are driven by values and vision. The design itself is modern and symbolic, but what’s even more powerful is what will happen inside those walls.
Future leaders will be shaped as people who won’t just study policies, but design them. Architects who won’t only build structures, but help shape sustainable, inclusive cities grounded in European principles like democracy, accessibility, and innovation. This campus will be a meeting point where ideas become actions, and where the built environment meets policymaking.
European Heritage Hub grants
Funded under the EU’s Creative Europe programme, the European Heritage Hub supports the preservation and creative reuse of cultural heritage across Europe, including the Western Balkans.
In Albania, sites like Gjirokastra and Berat, both UNESCO-listed and have benefited from EU-supported cultural revitalization programs. You can actually feel the difference when you walk through those cities now. Historic buildings are being restored, not just to preserve the past but to create spaces where people, especially young people, can gather, celebrate culture, and share stories. The European Heritage Hub, which is an EUfunded pilot project, is playing a big role in this initiative.
Practical ways for YEAs to engage in architecture
Rather than just offering calls to action, we present practical ways for youth to engage with architecture. One option is Design Advocacy Labs, where youth-led groups explore local issues like abandoned spaces or informal settlements and co-design small-scale interventions.
Another idea is Architecture Walks with Local Elders, which gather oral stories tied to buildings to preserve unofficial memories of the past. We can also embrace Critique- as-Practice by creating visual campaigns to question public projects through photography, collage, or AR filters.
Cross border exchanges offer an opportunity to pair young creatives from different Balkan cities to reinterpret EU-funded projects, asking, “What would you do differently?”
Open Source Design is another avenue, where collaborations with universities and design collectives could result in publishing open blueprints for adaptable public furniture, mobile stages, or shelters. Architecture needs new formats, not just new facades.
Attending the SHARE Forum as Young European Ambassadors reinforced our belief that architecture should be at the heart of our conversations, campaigns, and actions.
Conclusion
The SHARE Forum reminded us that architecture is more than just walls and windows, it’s about values like sustainability, inclusion, creativity, and community. As Young European Ambassadors (YEAs), we understand that architecture is a powerful tool for shaping better societies, not just physically, but socially, emotionally, and environmentally.
The Forum sparked a shared belief that we, as the next generation, have a role in transforming the spaces we inhabit, from activism to design, storytelling, or simply asking the right questions. Whether through youth-led design workshops, supporting inclusive spaces, or participating in EU-funded projects, we can shape a future that includes everyone.
The governing bodies of the WBIF met in Brussels on 24-25 April 2025 for the 7th Strategic and Operational Board meetings.
The first set of investment projects submitted by the beneficiaries to be financed under the new Reform and Growth Facility was presented and discussed.
All the projects are in the field of clean energy aiming at improving capacity of energy systems in the region to integrate renewable energy sources.
The WBIF plays an important role in implementing the Reform and Growth Facility for the Western Balkans, which is a key instrument under the EU’s Growth Plan to boost socio-economic convergence with the EU and to accelerate the accession process.
The WBIF is the financial mechanism that will channel €3 billion of grants and loans under the Facility to support priority investments in transport, energy, digital and human capital development.
The WBIF also approved the scaling-up of the Regional Energy Efficiency Programme (REEP)* with additional €90 million from the Instrument for Pre-accession Assistance (IPA III).
Implemented by the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) and the German development bank KfW, this programme is assisting the Western Balkan partners in decarbonising their economies through investments in renewable energy and energy efficiency measures across residential, public and private sectors. The meeting was also the opportunity to launch the new webpage showcasing the REEP activities, news and success stories: www.wbif.eu/reep-2025.
At the afternoon side-event, hosted by DG ENEST ‘Bridging Markets: EU Industry & Investment in the Western Balkans’ the EU and Western Balkan industry representatives explored how the WBIF is fostering infrastructure investment and creating business opportunities across the region. Over 40 participants — including engineering firms, consultancies, trade associations, and members of the WBIF Strategic Board — discussed investment opportunities from ongoing and pipeline WBIF projects, improving the business environment for EU and Western Balkans companies and addressed barriers facing EU companies in non-EU markets, with insightful contributions from European Investment Bank (EIB), European Construction Industry Federation (FIEC), European Federation of Engineering Consultancy Associations (EFCA), STRABAG, and representatives of national institutions and public companies from the Western Balkans.
The WBIF Board meetings brought together – in person and online – representatives from WBIF stakeholders (European Commission, EU Member States, Norway, Western Balkan partners and financial partner organisations) and observers (European Parliament, Transport Community, Energy Community, Regional Cooperation Council and WB6 Chamber Investment Forum). The meetings were co-chaired by the European Commission and Croatia as the Bilateral Donors’ Chair.
The meeting was closed with the WBIF’s 15-year anniversary video showing the key results 2009-2024.* With reservation to supporting energy efficiency measures in public sector buildings in the entity of Republika Srpska (Bosnia and Herzegovina).
The Growth Plan for the Western Balkans is an offer from the European Union to membership candidates (Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo, Montenegro, North Macedonia, and Serbia ) to accelerate their accession process. The Growth Plan provides for a faster integration into the EU’s Single Market, while requiring stronger regional economic cooperation, which is expected to lead to an accelerated socio-economic convergence with the EU. To support these reforms, a fund of €6 billion has been prepared – comprising €2 billion in grants and €4 billion in concessional loans – conditional on the implementation of specific reforms and alignment of domestic legislation with the EU acquis.
It is estimated that the implementation of the Growth Plan could provide significant momentum to reforms, potentially leading to a doubling of the region’s economies over the next decade.
“The Growth Plan does not affect the ongoing accession processes, or the specific conditions set within those frameworks, particularly regarding fundamental principles. The Common Regional Market is an initiative agreed upon by the leaders of the Western Balkans at the Berlin Process Summit in Sofia in 2020. This market, along with its accompanying action plan, aims to enable the free movement of goods, services, capital, and people within the region”, the Growth Plan states, emphasising that “speed is key” and that the plan is intended to help the region focus on their shared future as EU members and overcome bilateral challenges hindering progress.
Adi Ćerimagić, an analyst from the European Stability Initiative, explains that the EU is attempting to provide membership candidates with some of the benefits of membership in advance.
“One component is additional funding to narrow the gap between what EU members and candidate countries receive. However, this comes with the requirement of a detailed reform plan that covers not only the rule of law and economic reform, but also other areas such as public administration and public procurement reform, depending on each country’s needs. Another aspect is pre-accession benefits, with the expectation that candidate countries will adopt legislation and institutions enabling them to function as if they were members. A good example is SEPA, which allows banks in candidate countries to conduct euro transactions as if they were in the EU, without additional fees, but this requires adapting national legislation and banking regulations,” says Ćerimagić, noting that the essence of the Growth Plan is to offer candidates more money and more opportunities for their economies and citizens, based on the pace at which they implement reforms.
Professor Lejla Ramić-Mesihović, from the Department of International Relations at the International Burch University (IBU), says this represents a major opportunity.
“The Growth Plan is an excellent opportunity to strengthen the Common Regional Market of the Western Balkans and connect it with the EU’s Single Market, which we are all oriented towards. It is essentially a pot of money to which we all have access”
The Growth Plan focuses on seven key areas: the free movement of goods, services and workers; access to euro-denominated payments; easier road transport; decarbonisation and energy market integration; a common digital market; and integration into industrial supply chains. Some of the opportunities created include new employment prospects, free public internet access, cheaper and faster money transfers (via SEPA), reduced border waiting times for road transport (green lanes), and digital hubs for start-up companies. The prerequisites for these benefits include harmonising border control legislation, signing the Convention on a Common Transit Procedure, reforming public finances in line with European standards, and mutual recognition of skills and qualifications between the EU and the Western Balkans – including professional qualifications, building on the existing mobility agreements.
The Growth Plan covers the period from 2024 to 2027, and the allocated funds will be distributed based on a formula that includes GDP, population, and several other criteria. According to preliminary estimates, Albania could receive €922 million, Montenegro €383 million, Kosovo €880 million, North Macedonia €750 million, Serbia €1.58 billion, while Bosnia and Herzegovina, once it finalises its reform agenda, could be eligible for €1.85 billion. At least 50% of the total amount will be directed towards investments through the Western Balkans Investment Framework (WBIF). The remaining funds will go directly to the governments of the Western Balkans, and access to the funds will depend on the progress made in implementing the reform agendas each country has developed.
Disbursements will take place twice a year, based on applications submitted by the Western Balkan governments, but only after the European Commission confirms that all conditions have been met – such as macroeconomic stability, sound public financial management, transparency, and budget oversight.
The Growth Plan was adopted on 8 November 2023, and by April 2025 the European Commission had approved the Reform Agendas of Albania, Kosovo, Montenegro, North Macedonia, and Serbia. Bosnia and Herzegovina has yet to receive the “green light.”
The Western Balkan governments have been warned that if they fail to meet payment conditions, the Commission will suspend or withhold the corresponding amounts. Furthermore, those that do not implement reforms within a year or two will be required to return the funds, which will then be redistributed to others.
Through sport, we build trust. Through teamwork, we grow stronger. Through diversity and unity, we shape our future
Pristina, 24 April 2025 – The Europe House in Pristina hosted the launch of the WeBalkans Regional Youth Photo Contest. Under the title “Ready. Steady. Our Europe!”, the dynamic initiative will run until September 2025. It invites young people from across the Western Balkans to tell their stories through the lens of sport and photography.
Launched by the WeBalkans initiative funded by the European Commission, the Contest underscores sport’s power to transcend borders and foster connection. As shared during the opening event, it is open to youth aged 18 to 29, encouraging them to capture moments that reflect inclusion, respect, and unity—values that are at the heart of sport but also are core European values. Whether it’s a dusty village pitch or a vibrant street game, the goal of the Contest is to highlight how sport connects us all.
„I am happy Pristina is hosting the launch of this regional competition since there is so much talent and creativity in Kosovo — and I have no doubt that many of the most inspiring submissions will come from its young people. Sport is a unique way of telling the story of who we are, and what are the true values that connect Western Balkans and the European Union“, said Ambassador Aivo Orav, Head of the EU Office in Kosovo / EU Special Representative.
The Contest enjoys the support of prominent athletes such as Arineta Mula—mountaineer, runner, and Everest climber—and Valbona Bytyqi, professional basketball player. Their participation reminded the audience that while every sport has its rules and champions, its true strength lies in teamwork, fairness, and the belief that no goal is too far.
The launch gathered more than 50 young people, EU representatives, influencers, and media from Kosovo and the wider Western Balkans. The WeBalkans team used this opportunity to present past successful campaigns and outline their wider communication efforts aimed at youth engagement and regional cooperation.
The Contest aims to gather over 100 photo submissions from the youth of Western Balkan. A regional jury of six experts will select 18 winning photos that will be featured in a traveling exhibition across six regional cities. Each stop will include local events featuring athletes, Young European Ambassadors (YEAs), and journalists, creating spaces for community dialogue and sport celebration.
The photo journey will conclude with an online vote hosted on webalkans.eu web and social media, where the public will select the top three winning photos. The winners will be awarded a trip to an EU capital—a symbolic step on their journey toward Europe.
“This campaign is not just about visuals. It is designed to connect, uplift, and inspire. Through this contest, we want to show that together we play, we grow, and together we shape the Europe of tomorrow,” said, Sibora Sejdini, WeBalkans Young European Ambassador.
To learn more about the WeBalkans Photo Competition, please visit the campaign’s dedicated landing page.
Tesnim Karišik Spahić is an award-winning changemaker, creative strategist, and humanitarian from Bosnia and Herzegovina, reshaping narratives through the power of purpose, art, and action.
As co-founder of Carry for Humanity, she launched the Carry for Palestine initiative – securing clean water and emergency shelter for displaced families through the sale of eco-friendly products and community-driven donations.
Tesnim is a fierce advocate for gender equality, climate action, and youth empowerment, using creativity as a tool for awareness and change. Her most recent artistic installation, Zašto venu ruže naše, honoring victims of femicide, and her public project Osvijesti se, addressing road safety, have sparked national conversations and engaged broad audiences through visual storytelling.
She was selected for the prestigious BOLD Fellowship in New York City, where she received intensive training in leadership, entrepreneurship, and social innovation at the University at Buffalo, working alongside changemakers from around the world.
Through photography, design, and storytelling, Tesnim uplifts women entrepreneurs and marginalized voices, helping them share their stories and amplify their impact.
A Social Impact Award winner, National Geographic awardee, and Young European Ambassador, Tesnim brings people together around the issues that matter, with heart, with vision, and with fearless creativity.
Author: Visar Kukaqi, Young European Ambassador from Kosovo
The Roma minority is one of the largest ethnic minority groups in Europe. Often the face many challenges such as discrimination, segregation, socio-economic problems, they are excluded from education and forgotten by the institutions. In the Western Balkans, the Roma minority is a marginalized group, and with the help of the EU, governments and NGOs are working on strategies on integrating the Roma minority. One of the projects dedicated to the Roma minority is “EU award for Roma Integration in the Western Balkans and Tϋrkiye”
What is the “EU Award for Roma Integration in the Western Balkans and Türkiye”?
The EU Award for Roma Integration in the Western Balkans and Türkiye is an IPA-funded initiative designed to enhance the political visibility of Roma integration in the region, the award is funded by the European Union and implemented by Roma Active Albania. In alignment with the EU enlargement process and the Berlin Process, the six Western Balkans countries have adopted national strategies and action plans aimed at promoting Roma integration across various sectors, such as education, employment, and housing. Both Roma and non-Roma stakeholders, including activists, civil society organizations, and international entities, collaborate to advance these objectives. The EU Award recognizes these efforts by granting political acknowledgment and visibility to successful models that yield tangible results for Roma integration.
On April 10, I had the opportunity to attend the awarding ceremony for the “EU award for Roma Integration in the Western Balkans and Tϋrkiye” in Brussels. This marked the sixth edition of the event, honoring this year’s achievements and individuals who have advanced Roma integration through education.
The first EU Award was held in 2014. Typically, these award ceremonies are aligned with the European Romani Week, an annual event organized by the European Parliament for both the EU 27 and candidate countries. Previous ceremonies have welcomed distinguished guests, such as ambassadors from the Western Balkans, Members of the former DG ENEST Cabinet, and the Director of DG ENEST, Valentina Superti (who, unfortunately, could not attend this year).
The ceremony began with a video featuring Valentina Superti, the Director of DG ENEST, extending a warm welcome to the guests, organizers, and award recipients. In her message, Ms. Superti emphasized the vital role of education as a tool for resilience that facilitates the integration of Roma children.
The evening continued with a panel discussion titled ‘Breaking Barriers: Advancing Roma Inclusion in Education across the Western Balkans and Türkiye’, moderated by Adriatik Hasantari from Roma Active Albania and featuring a selection of panelists:
Vesna Dzuteska-Bisheva, Team leader, inclusive growth, UNDP
Gabriela Hrabanova, Director, ERGO Network
Ciprian Necula, President Roma Education Fund
Nesime Salioska, Former Award Winner, Republic of North Macedonia.
Ms.Dzuteska-Bisheva addressed two important challenges in education that Roma kids are facing. She highlighted the lack of attendance of Roma kids in preschools and how important it is to work toward this challenge to integrate them into early childhood education. Also, she addressed as the red signal lack of involvement in Vocational Education and Training (VET) of Roma people, due to many factors.
Ms. Salioska shared with all of us her inspiring journey in education as a Roma woman, highlighting the impact of education in general, especially on marginalized minorities. “My father wasn’t very enthusiastic for me to continue my education after primary school, but one day my grandfather said: If I knew how to read and write, maybe I could have been president, and that inspired me to continue despite the challenges and make changes”, said Salioska.
From Ms.Hrabanova, the importance of having intercultural classrooms was addressed. To advance Roma inclusion, according to Ms.Hrabanova schools must work more on creating inclusive environment.
As someone who studied Pedagogy (Intercultural Educational Assistant I was excited and interested of listening to this panel discussion, and was waiting for the turn of audience interaction to share my opinion on the discussion.
As for Mr.Necula, he shared the success and the impact that scholarships had on Roma students’ life. I was impressed to see a few of the REF scholarship holders attending the event as well, among them were also the winners. Mr.Necula said how important it is to increase and make changes to funding Roma students, to increase the number of students that will register and graduate from Western Balkans Universities, and to continue making an impact on their community.
As a Young European Ambassador with experience in education and Roma kids, I addressed my opinion on what we can do to advance Roma inclusion in education. From the perspective of an expert in intercultural education, I addressed that we should also focus on training teachers about intercultural education, but also advocate more, to change the curricula in Western Balkans’ schools in an intercultural environment, no matter of whether there is any ethnic minority group or not.
The last part of the event was announcing the winners, and among whom were also NGOs and Ministries. Announcement of winners and presentation of awards was by Marta Garcia Fidalgo from DG ENEST (as Adviser for Roma Integration, Department of European Commission), and Ina Makjo from Roma Active Albania. The winners who contributed to the education of Roma integration were:
Albania:
Roma Women Rights Centre (first prize)
Latif Kazanxhiu (second prize)
Bosnia and Herzegovina:
Romska djevojka – Romani Ćej (first prize)
Mujo Fafulić (second prize)
Kosovo:
Roma Versitas Kosovo (first prize)
Orhan Butic (second prize)
Balkan Sunflowers Kosova (second prize)
Montenegro:
Ministry of Education, Science and Innovation (first prize)
Sebastijan Baftijari (second prize)
North Macedonia:
Doan Sulejmanoski (first prize)
Senada Sali (second prize)
Serbia:
Center for Youth Integration (first prize)
Music Art Project (second prize)
Tϋrkiye
Şişli Municipality (first prize)
Tugay Aslım (second prize)
During the event, I had the chance to meet the winners and guests from the European Commission, where we discussed the challenges and possible solutions we can do to improve and make it much easier the integration of the Roma minority, not only in education but in every field and most important in the society.
The fourth meeting of the Accession Conference with Albania at ministerial level was held on 15 April 2025 in Luxembourg.
The European Union delegation was led by Mr Radosław Sikorski, Minister of Foreign Affairs, on behalf of the Polish Presidency of the Council of the European Union, with the participation of Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kos. The Albanian delegation was led by Mr Edi Rama, Prime Minister of Albania.
Today, we held the first Intergovernmental Conference with one of the candidate countries under the Polish presidency. EU enlargement remains at the core of our priorities. This concrete progress reflects our strong commitment towards our partners in the Western Balkans, a region which is key for the stability and security of the European Union.
Radosław Sikorski, Minister of Foreign Affairs, on behalf of the Polish Presidency of the Council of the European Union
The meeting served to open negotiations with Albania on Cluster 2: Internal market, including the following negotiating chapters:
Chapter 1 – Free movement of goods,
Chapter 2 – Freedom of movement of workers,
Chapter 3 – Right of establishment and freedom to provide services,
Chapter 4 – Free movement of capital,
Chapter 6 – Company law,
Chapter 7 – Intellectual property law,
Chapter 8 – Competition policy,
Chapter 9 – Financial services,
Chapter 28 – Consumer and health protection
The EU also set benchmarks for the provisional closure of these chapters.
This follows the opening of the first cluster on ‘Fundamentals’ and of the sixth cluster on ‘External relations’ at the Accession Conferences with Albania held on 15 October and 17 December 2024, respectively.
Monitoring of progress in the alignment with and implementation of the EU acquis and relevant European standards will continue throughout the negotiations.
The Accession Conference will return to this cluster at an appropriate moment.
Background
Following the introduction of the revised methodology for the accession negotiations in 2020, negotiating chapters are divided in six thematic clusters:
Fundamentals
Internal market
Competitiveness and inclusive growth
Green agenda and sustainable connectivity
Resources, agriculture and cohesion
External relations
Negotiations on the Fundamentals cluster are the first to be opened and the last to be closed, and progress under this cluster will determine the overall pace of negotiations.
More than 300 representatives of small and medium-sized businesses, international financial institutions and the European Commission were present in Belgrade for a day of information, networking and matchmaking. A further 200 participants followed online, benefitting from the virtual networking opportunities on the dedicated event platform.
H.E. Emanuele Giaufret, Ambassador and Head of Delegation of the European Union to the Republic of Serbia opened the event: “Our common goal is to promote economic growth and sustainable development. The support provided by the European Union is designed to align economies with EU standard by the time they integrate fully to the Union. The Growth Plan for the Western Balkans includes support for the whole region. The reforms, to which all governments have committed, will contribute to improving the business environment by strengthening competitiveness and the rule of law.”Adrijana Mesarović, Acting Minister of Economy of Serbia, emphasised: “The SME sector is the backbone of the Serbian economy, with over 110,000 active entities employing more than two-thirds of the working-age population. The EU is a key partner in developing the SME sector. Entrepreneurs in the region have shown resilience, strength, and creativity. Now is the time to support that energy through better access to finance, digital and green transformation, and internationalisation.”Mr. Marko Čadež, President, Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Serbia said: “Funding is important, but it’s not everything. For companies from the region it is even more important to gain full access to the EU single market even before formal membership. This very idea is reflected in the EU’s Growth Plan for the Western Balkans — to level the playing field for companies in the region with their counterparts in the EU.”
He reminded that the Western Balkans 6 Chamber Investment Forum (WB 6 CIF) was established eight years ago to open new opportunities for companies and strengthen dialogue with EU institutions. He announced that the region’s chambers of commerce will continue to develop new tools and services to keep companies informed in a timely manner about available financial support programmes.
A first panel session of Open4Business 2025 helped MSMEs navigate EU-supported financing programmes with best practices and supporting tools. Christophe Galand, Head of Unit for the Western Balkans, DG ENEST, European Commission said: “As well as investing in roads, electricity networks and infrastructure, we are also investing in access to finance. Micro, small and medium-sized businesses are a driving force in economic development, and the green and digital transition will not be made without them.”
Thediscussion between Alessandra Spinelli, Head of Blending and Technical Assistance, Cassa Depositi e Prestiti (CDP), Miloš Kosić, Associate Director, Financial Institutions, EBRD, Amir Salkanović, CEO, Procredit Bank Bosnia and Herzegovina was followed by a Q&A session.
The second panel session presented the WBIF financing programmes and practical experiences of local financial intermediaries and companies that have benefitted from the EU-supported financial products. Speakers were Damien Sorrell, Head of the Regional Hub for the Western Balkans, EIB, Mile Bradaš, Executive Director for SME division, NLB Komercijalna banka, Igor Anić, CEO, Procredit Bank Serbia and Matea Franjić, Executive Director, Kristal d.o.o, Bosnia Herzegovina.
The last panel session focused on challenges and opportunities of integrating value chains, and best practices for fostering investment and growth. Speakers: Ben Butters, CEO, Eurochambres, Jürgen Schreder, Austrian economic delegate, WKÖ, Austrian Foreign Trade Centre, Miloš Vuksanović, Country Manager (Serbia and Montenegro), Schneider Electric, David Piegazki, Secretary-General, Western Balkans 6 Chamber Investment Forum.
Key challenges in the Western Balkans’ business environment were also explored, including the need to stimulate local banks to open up to new financial products. Speakers from financial institutions emphasised the importance of adjusting their products to the gaps in the market and the need to accompany market evolution.
The afternoon was dedicated to matchmaking between Western Balkans and European businesses and financial institutions for further collaboration and support. There was a marked interest in creating partnerships across the Western Balkans and also with EU companies. The practical experience of companies who have already benefitted from EU-supported financial products was shared, with representatives of local financial institutions indicating key lessons learned.
Marko Spasenović, CEO of Flexisense, a private spin-off of Research Institute for Chemistry, Technology and Metalurgy of University of Belgrade: “The event was a good opportunity to gather practical information as well as to network with people from different industries. Our product is a wearable sensor that tracks respiration during exercise. To further develop our product, we want to employ technical and marketing staff and to expand our markets. At the event I discovered many credit lines available with an EU guarantee, and will definitely apply directly through commercial banks.”More about the Open4Business event here
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“Being a Young European Ambassador makes this work even more meaningful,” he shares. “The campaign reflects what YEAs stand for- bringing Europe closer to young people and helping them realize that their voice truly matters.”
