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Commissioner Marta Kos bolsters Albania’s EU accession efforts

Written by WeBalkans on . Posted in News.

Commissioner for Enlargement, Marta Kos, has embarked on her first official visit to Albania from 12 to 14 March, reinforcing the EU’s commitment to the country’s accession process. The visit featured high-level meetings and engagements focused on advancing reform and fostering closer EU–Albania ties.

In a high-level meeting, Commissioner Kos met with Prime Minister Edi Rama in Tirana. During the joint press conference, she expressed optimism about Albania’s reform process, “Dear Prime Minister Edi Rama, thank you for your warm welcome to Tirana! While the world is changing, the unity of Albania towards the EU remains an important guarantee for peace, freedom and security. For Albania, this is a window of opportunity. The EU is on your side to fully support your accession – let’s make it happen together.” Following this dialogue, she also met with the Speaker of Parliament, Elisa Spiropali, further underscoring the significance of high-level engagement in Albania’s EU journey.

Additionally, Commissioner Kos visited the College of Europe Tirana Campus, where she engaged with students and faculty. Reflecting on her own youthful aspirations for a united continent, she remarked, “When I was their age, we dreamt of the unification of our continent. Today, this dream is closer to reality – also because of countries like Albania, who are committed to the accession process.” Her address highlighted the vital role of youth and civil society in shaping Europe’s enlargement policy, particularly in the Western Balkans.

By connecting with top decision-makers, civil society, and the next generation, Commissioner Kos’s visit reinforces a shared vision of a more united and resilient Europe.

Montenegro: European Union provides a €22 million grant to enhance sustainable water use and climate resilience on an EIB Global-financed project

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  • The EU grant will enable the construction and extension of water supply and sanitation infrastructure in three Montenegrin municipalities
  • The funds provided through the Western Balkans Investment Framework will support the construction works and provide technical assistance for the project’s implementation
  • These efforts will improve living conditions for around 30 000 people and support sustainable and climate-resilient growth
At the event held today in Podgorica, the European Investment Bank (EIB Global) and Montenegro’s Ministry of Ecology, Sustainable Development, and Northern Region Development have signed a €22.5 million grant agreement, funded by the EU, to develop sustainable water supply and wastewater systems in the municipalities of Kolašin, Rožaje, and Mojkovac. These projects aim to improve the quality of communal water and sanitation services, safeguarding both public health and the environment. By upgrading water quality in areas downstream of the Tara and Ibar rivers, these efforts will also promote sustainable tourism and enhance the living conditions of approximately 30 000 people. The EU grant channelled through the Western Balkans Investment Framework will support the construction works and technical assistance to ensure the project’s implementation aligns with relevant national and EU standards. The overall cost, estimated at over €34 million, will be primarily financed with this €22.5 million EU grant, as well as a €10 million EIB loan signed previously. Responsive Image EIB Head of Regional Hub for the Western Balkans Damien Sorrell said: “Together with the European Commission, we are glad to be able to bring forward these financial and technical resources under Team Europe for the benefit of people in Montenegro. Beyond improving water management and ensuring a reliable supply of water, this investment and technical assistance grant channelled through the Western Balkans Investment Framework will contribute to sustainable use of water resources and higher climate resilience in line with the European Union’s Green Agenda, while increasing attractiveness for investors.” Damjan Ćulafić, Minister of Ecology, Sustainable Development and Northern Region Development, said: “We thank the European Union and the European Investment Bank for their continuous support in improving infrastructure in Montenegro. These projects are of great importance for our country as they directly impact the improvement of the quality of life of our citizens, environmental protection, and increased resilience to climate change. By investing in water supply and sewage systems in Kolašin, Rožaje and Mojkovac we are taking a significant step toward sustainable development in the northern region and laying the foundation for future economic growth and ecological stability.” Johann Sattler, the European Union’s Ambassador to Montenegro, remarked: “This grant is another clear example of the European Union’s continued support for Montenegro in its efforts to meet EU standards while prioritising the quality of life for its citizens. The EU Delegation in Montenegro is proud to see that our joint efforts with national and local authorities, as well as the EIB, are yielding tangible results. In the coming period, we look forward to the implementation of additional wastewater projects in the municipalities of Pljevlja, Nikšić, Ulcinj, Kotor and Tivat. We are confident that these projects will not only bring Montenegro closer to the European Union and its accession agenda and improve the lives of its citizens, but will also contribute significantly to climate change mitigation efforts.” In terms of the project scope, the investment supports the construction of a wastewater treatment plant for a population of *6 000 (PE) and the extension of the water supply and sewerage networks in Kolašin. The municipality of Rožaje will benefit from an expanded 15km wastewater collection network, along with a new wastewater treatment plant for a population of 20 000. In Mojkovac, the project will enable the reconstruction of the existing wastewater treatment plant to serve 5 250 people, the installation of a 10km sewerage network. The project is part of the Economic and Investment Plan for the Western Balkans. As one of the largest lenders to the global water sector to date, with €90 billion provided for well over 1 700 projects, water security and climate change adaptation are priorities for the EIB.   Background information About the EIB and EIB Global The EIB is the long-term financing institution of the European Union, owned by its Member States. It makes long-term finance available for sound investment in order to contribute towards EU policy goals. The EIB supports projects in four priority areas: infrastructure, innovation, climate and environment, and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). EIB Global is the EIB Group’s specialised arm devoted to increasing the impact of international partnerships and development finance, and a key partner of Global Gateway. We aim to support €100 billion of investment by the end of 2027 – around one-third of the overall target of this EU initiative. Within Team Europe, EIB Global fosters strong, focused partnerships alongside fellow development finance institutions and civil society. EIB Global brings the EIB Group closer to local people, companies and institutions through our offices around the world. About the EIB in Montenegro: About the EIB in the Western Balkans The EIB is one of the leading international financiers in the Western Balkans. For detailed information on the EIB’s activities in this region, visit www.eib.org/en/publications/the-eib-in-the-western-balkans.

More than an initiative, a reconciliation movement

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“The reason I joined this camp was to socialise more, to overcome interethnic and interfaith differences, which are often exploited for political purposes. In reality, these differences do not exist because every family has its struggles and difficulties, and sometimes help comes from unexpected places,” says Milisa Ristović from North Mitrovica, Kosovo, about his participation at one of the Youth Peace Camps organised this winter by REC – Reconciliation Empowering Communities organisation in the framework of the EU funded project “Harmony Talks: Fostering Inter-Ethnic Understanding among Youth”.

However, youth camps were only one component of this successful initiative that through different activities, brought together over 350 youths of Albanian, Serbian, Romani, Ashkali, Egyptian, Turkish and Bosniak communities living in Mitrovica.

In addition to the three youth peace camps that gathered more than 100 young people from various communities living in Mitrovica, The Harmony Talks: Fostering Inter-Ethnic Understanding among Youth project, carried out a few other initiatives aimed at fostering understanding among youths. The Harmony Talks sessions were structured discussions tackling some of the most pressing issues for different communities in Kosovo, including reconciliation, civic activism, the role of women in peacebuilding, and environmental sustainability. As a tool to raise awareness and influence public discourse on matters related to peacebuilding, the project carried out a number of Op-Ed articles, which had an outstanding impact on the social debate regarding reconciliation, peacebuilding and civic activism in Kosovo. Through this platform, intellectuals, activists, journalists, and young people have had the opportunity to address critical issues that directly affect reconciliation processes and build positive narratives about cooperation among different communities.

“More than an initiative, the project turned into a movement for reconciliation,” says REC’s Executive Director Besnik Uka, when reflecting on the achievements of the project, while also highlighting the importance of financial backing for such initiatives, “Support from the EU and UNDP has been vital in making this project possible. Through their funding, we have created safe spaces where young people from different communities have had the opportunity to get to know each other, share experiences, and work together for a better future.”

Reconciliation Empowering Communities (REC) is a non-governmental organization known for its leadership in promoting inter-ethnic dialogue, youth empowerment, and building a more united society in Kosovo. By addressing historical divisions and social challenges that hinder cooperation among communities, REC is committed to creating powerful platforms for social transformation and sustainable reconciliation. REC has been one of the key partners in implementing the project “Harmony Talks: Fostering Inter-Ethnic Understanding among Youth,” in collaboration with the Alternative Dispute Resolution Center (ADRC).

REC has played a critical role in promoting equality, social justice, and civic activism through innovative methodologies and inclusive projects. By adopting an approach based on citizen empowerment and building strong cooperation networks, the organization has helped foster trust and address deep-rooted social challenges in Kosovo. REC is the primary catalyst for change in Kosovo, building bridges of cooperation and creating an inclusive culture that aims for a sustainable and peaceful future for all citizens.

This project has marked an important moment in the reconciliation process and youth empowerment in Kosovo. The camps organised within the project were particularly impactful, because the participants had the opportunity to intensively spend time together and understand each other’s backgrounds, as shared by Edin Lahi, one of the camp’s participants, “Such initiatives [camps] are incredibly important, because they help us foster understanding, not just discuss it. They encourage us to actively contribute to peace and dialogue.”

Initiatives like the youth peace camps and the Harmony Talks project, show that through open dialogue, education, and cooperation, young people can become a catalyst for change and the construction of a more united future.

International Women’s Day is more than just one day

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In the Western Balkans, women are not adequately represented in politics or corporate leadership structures. They have little influence over decision-making and the allocation of public funds, make up a larger share of the unemployed, and bear the overwhelming burden of unpaid domestic and care work. However, women’s empowerment and their position in society are the focus of many European Union initiatives in the Western Balkans, including combatting violence and discrimination, providing legal aid, supporting the rights of LGBTIQ+ individuals, encouraging political engagement, promoting healthcare, ensuring transitional justice, supporting female entrepreneurs, fostering networking, preserving cultural traditions, and increasing the number of women in the police force and at border posts.

International Women’s Day on 8 March is an opportunity to highlight the strength and capabilities of women. To mark the occasion, a series of events and various campaigns are being organised in Montenegro, Kosovo, Albania, North Macedonia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Serbia.

In Montenegro, the campaign “Heroines and Skills” celebrates women who have successfully transformed their careers: an economist engaged in gold embroidery, a professor cultivating mushrooms, a graphic designer creating terrariums, and an economist designing jewellery.

In Serbia, the EU Delegation has introduced the “Dobrila” award to promote greater recognition of efforts towards gender equality. The award is named after Dobrila Vasiljević Smiljanić, who recognised the potential of traditional women’s skills and dedicated her career to achieving economic and social equality for women in rural areas of Zlatibor. This year’s recipient is Radmila Gujaničić from Užice.

“This award is important to me as it rounds off my work after retirement, and I am particularly pleased to be the first recipient in the Zlatibor region. Through the Sirogojno cooperative, Dobrila empowered women from Zlatibor and became known worldwide. This award also gives me social influence, which I intend to share with other women,” said Gujaničić. She believes that the EU’s contribution to empowering women in the Western Balkans is invaluable.

“In order to get somewhere, you need to start somewhere, and the EU, as an external force, has the power to initiate change. It is crucial that they invest in improving the status of women. I would like to see more funding for economic empowerment, as women have realised the power of their economic activities. Perhaps more accessible loans and fewer commercial ones. Many projects would not have been realised, and many organisations would not have survived without EU support,” Gujaničić added. She also highlighted the significant impact of EU-funded initiatives, including partnerships with UN Women, which have yielded excellent results.

The positive impact of civil society organisations extends to the public sector. The INFOHOUSE Foundation from Sarajevo, in cooperation with the Budućnost Modriča Citizens’ Association, has changed public fund policies for self-employment through its project “Economic and Social Opportunities for the Independence of Women Survivors of Domestic Violence.” The project enabled 65 women who survived violence to receive entrepreneurship training and assistance in developing business plans, while 18 women received grants and mentorship to start their businesses.

“As a result of our advocacy, the Employment Bureau in the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina (one of the two administrative entities in Bosnia and Herzegovina) increased the funds allocated to women for self-employment by 10%,” said Dženana Alađuz, director of INFOHOUSE.

In Kosovo, the European Union in Kosovo is dedicating the month to celebrating the power, creativity, and impact of women through a series of inspiring events! From exhibitions by artists Ulpiana Kurtaj and Andjela Ranković, to masterclasses on women in business, digital innovation, and climate action, the month is packed with opportunities to learn, connect, and be inspired. Educational activities will engage young minds on gender equality and environmental awareness while the International Day of Zero Waste will be marked with a special cooking show promoting sustainability.

Beyond individual projects, the EU also implements regional initiatives involving multiple organisations from across the Western Balkans, facilitating the exchange of knowledge and experience. One example is the “Empowering Women to Tackle Energy Poverty in the Mediterranean” project, worth €2 million, which has been implemented in Spain, France, Italy, Slovenia, Croatia, and Albania.

At the Women’s Centre in Užice, representatives stress that collaboration with the EU is particularly important for small organisations that lack their own funds or cannot access public budgets.

“With the EU’s support, we launched a textile recycling initiative, which economically empowered women from marginalised groups. We also established cross-border cooperation with Montenegro, which remains active 15 years later,” representatives from the Women’s Centre in Užice stated. They emphasised that, thanks to the EU, they evolved from a small organisation unable to apply for grants independently into a competitive entity in the field of social innovation.

International Women’s Day on 8 March marks the struggle of women for shorter working hours, better working conditions, and voting rights—a movement that began on 8 March 1857 in New York. In 1910, the Socialist International, at the proposal of Clara Zetkin, established International Women’s Day. The United Nations has officially recognised the day since 1975, and in 1977, the UN General Assembly called on member states to proclaim 8 March as an official UN holiday for women’s rights and world peace.

Congratulations to North Macedonia on joining SEPA – A step closer to European Integration

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North Macedonia advanced on its European integration path by joining the geographical scope of the Single Euro Payments Area (SEPA) following the positive decision by the European Payments Council (EPC). This is a practical example of the impact of the Growth Plan for the Western Balkans, an EU initiative to accelerate the socio-economic integration of the Western Balkans into the EU, including through progressive access to certain areas of the EU single market based on alignment with the EU acquis Communautaire.

As a result of the European Payments Council decision, the payment service providers of North Macedonia will have the possibility to adhere to the various SEPA schemes which are managed by the EPC.

This step paves the way for North Macedonia to facilitate financial transfers in euro and reduce the cost and processing time of these transactions between its citizens, businesses, and other SEPA members. It is therefore contributing to sustained economic growth.

The European Commission will continue to support the preparation of North Macedonia’s payment service providers and the country’s further alignment with the EU acquis in the area of financial services.

Background

The European Payments Council (EPC) is an independent, international not-for-profit association formed of 83 members who are payment service providers (PSPs) or associations of PSPs. The EPC was created in 2002 by the European banking industry to develop European instruments for electronic euro payments. Today, close to 4,000 banks and other payment service providers participate in SEPA schemes.

In close dialogue with the stakeholder community, the EPC has developed, among other things, “schemes,” such as the SEPA Credit Transfer, the SEPA Instant Credit Transfer, and the SEPA Direct Debit scheme. These schemes, which facilitated over 50 billion transactions in 36 countries last year, are regularly updated and enhanced by the EPC to help realize easy cross-border euro payments.

More Information

Factsheet on the Growth Plan for the Western Balkans EPC press release on Moldova & North Macedonia

STEMing the Roots of Science

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Edlira Dibrani, Young European Ambassador from Kosovo

The underrepresentation of girls in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) remains a challenge globally, including in Kosovo. While progress has been made in encouraging more girls to pursue careers in science and technology, the numbers still indicate that further support and systemic efforts are needed. The European Union (EU) has been a strong advocate for gender equality in education and career opportunities, particularly in STEM fields. In celebration of the International Day of Girls in Science, we had the privilege of hosting the Deputy Ambassador of the EU in Kosovo, Ms. Eva Palatova, at the Finnish School of Kosovo. The event provided an opportunity to discuss the importance of education, mentorship, and practical experiences in shaping the future of girls in STEM.

A crucial element in addressing gender disparities in STEM is education. Finland’s education system serves as a model in this regard, fostering an inclusive and encouraging learning environment for all students, regardless of gender. Finland has long been recognized for its progressive approach to education, emphasizing creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.

During her address, Ms. Eva Palatova highlighted key EU initiatives designed to support young students, particularly girls, in their academic and professional aspirations. One such initiative is the Erasmus program, which provides students with the opportunity to study abroad, experience different academic environments, and engage with leading institutions in science and technology. Another significant program is the Young Cell Scheme, which offers scholarships to outstanding students in Kosovo to pursue higher education in EU countries. These programs not only enhance academic knowledge but also equip students with international exposure, broadening their perspectives and increasing their competitiveness in the global job market.

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Ms. Palatova also emphasized the importance of gaining practical experience alongside formal education. Encouraging students to engage in internships, research projects, and hands-on learning opportunities allows them to refine their interests and develop essential skills. Practical experience helps students understand the real-world applications of their studies, making their education more meaningful and impactful. She pointed out that by integrating such experiences into their academic journey, girls in STEM can better prepare for future careers and navigate the professional world with confidence.

One of the most inspiring moments of Ms. Palatova’s speech was her reference to Marie Curie, the first woman to win a Nobel Prize and a pioneering scientist in the field of radioactivity. Marie Curie’s remarkable journey serves as a testament to perseverance, intelligence, and resilience in the face of societal barriers. Her story continues to inspire young girls to break stereotypes and push boundaries in the scientific world. Ms. Palatova also acknowledged the contributions of Albanian women in STEM, such as Mira Murati, a leading figure in artificial intelligence and one of the key minds behind ChatGPT. Highlighting such role models is crucial in demonstrating that success in STEM is not limited by gender or geography.

In addition to the significance of role models, Ms. Palatova spoke about the value of internships as a means of professional growth. Internships provide students with real-world experience, allowing them to develop practical skills, build professional networks, and understand workplace dynamics. Through internships, students not only refine their expertise but also gain insights into potential career paths, enabling them to make informed decisions about their futures.

The event served as a reminder that the future for girls in STEM is bright, but continued effort is needed to ensure that they have the support, encouragement, and resources necessary to succeed. The EU’s commitment to education, coupled with local initiatives, plays a crucial role in fostering an environment where girls can thrive in science and technology. As educators, mentors, and advocates, we must continue to provide opportunities that empower young girls to pursue their passions in STEM. By doing so, we contribute to a more inclusive and innovative future, where talent and ambition are nurtured, regardless of gender.

In conclusion, as we marked the International Day of Girls in Science, we reaffirmed our commitment to supporting and encouraging young women in STEM. With access to quality education, mentorship, and practical experiences, girls can break barriers and make significant contributions to science and technology. The journey may not always be easy, but with the right support systems in place, they can achieve remarkable success. It is essential that we continue to work together—students, educators, policymakers, and the broader community—to ensure that every girl has the opportunity to explore, excel, and lead in the world of STEM.

Boosting creative skills in the Western Balkans

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A new initiative is set to transform the creative and cultural industries (CCIs) in the Western Balkans by equipping professionals with the skills needed for sustainable growth and regional cooperation. The Regional Skills Partnership (RSP) for the Western Balkans, led by Association Kulturanova (Serbia) and supported by key cultural organizations from Montenegro and Slovenia, aims to foster innovation, bridge skill gaps, and drive economic development through cultural and creative industries. A creative boost for the regional economy The creative industries in the Western Balkans have the potential to drive economic growth, cultural exchange, and innovation. However, challenges such as limited skill development, weak infrastructure, and restricted access to funding and markets have hindered their full potential. The RSP is stepping in to address these challenges by focusing on capacity-building, digital and green skills development, and stronger networking opportunities. This initiative aligns with the EU’s Growth Plan for the Western Balkans, reinforcing the importance of creative industries as a key driver for economic transformation. By integrating culture and creativity into economic strategies, the partnership seeks to position the Western Balkans as a competitive and innovative region within the European cultural landscape. Bridging the skills gap The RSP’s approach is based on a systematic collaboration between institutions, businesses, and creative practitioners to develop practical training opportunities and create sustainable career pathways in the cultural sector. Some of the key actions include:
  • Developing digital, green, and communication skills to align with global industry trends.
  • Hosting training programs, workshops, and networking sessions to enhance professional skills and innovation.
  • Providing financial and market access support for creative entrepreneurs and organizations.
  • Strengthening policy recommendations to improve the regulatory environment for creative businesses.
At the heart of this initiative is the HUB, a collaborative incubator designed to facilitate training, mentorship, and cross-sector partnerships. By 2026, the partnership aims to establish the HUB as a regional center for creative skills development, connecting talent from across the Western Balkans. The future is creative With 30 organizations already participating and plans to financially support at least 15 projects, the RSP is setting a strong foundation for the future of the region’s creative industries. This initiative is more than just a skills-building effort—it is a movement towards a more sustainable, inclusive, and globally competitive creative economy in the Western Balkans. The Western Balkans’ cultural wealth has long been a source of identity and innovation. Now, with the right skills and support, the creative industries can play a pivotal role in shaping the region’s economic and social future. For more information about the Regional Skills Partnership for the Western Balkans, visit Kulturanova.

Stronger together: North Macedonia boosts security against illegal weapons

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At the end of January 2025, the Ministry of Internal Affairs of North Macedonia received equipment to enhance crime scene investigations involving firearms.

“This equipment will serve to more efficiently combat illegal trade and possession of firearms, ensure safe control over the legality of small arms possession, and increase the security of citizens across Europe”, stated the EU Delegation in North Macedonia.

Since the armed conflicts of 2001, many of the country’s residents have illegally possessed light weaponry. Police reports frequently indicate that such weapons are found during routine inspections, often alongside narcotics, in fights, smuggling operations, or domestic violence incidents. The OSCE, UNDP and other international organisations running regional projects to raise awareness about the dangers of illegal weapons and strengthen control over their possession warn that such weapons pose “a threat to citizens’ security, public safety and play a significant role in domestic violence, murders and gender-based violence, while also contributing to crime and instability worldwide”.

North Macedonia appears in international reports and analyses as “a country on the route of illegal arms trade”.

“There is a lot of weaponry in North Macedonia. I don’t know if it’s legal or not, but it is used and threatens public safety. People fire guns a lot at weddings, for example, and there have been injuries and victims from stray bullets. These aren’t just single shots but bursts of gunfire that disturb entire cities. The Ministry of Internal Affairs regularly organizes campaigns and appeals to citizens, but to no avail. I don’t think the public is fully aware of how much illegal weaponry is in the country, but they do know there’s a lot and that there are risks!”, says Suzana Nikolić, a journalist for Kumanovo news.

The importance of controlling illegal weapons became even more evident after the mass shooting in Montenegro in January 2025, where thirteen people, including two children, were killed.

According to Small Arms Survey estimates from 2018, there are over six million firearms in Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Serbia, and Kosovo—approximately 30 weapons per 100 inhabitants. Nearly 90% of these are in civilian hands, exceeding the global average of around 75%. It is believed that between 500,000 and 1.6 million households in the region possess firearms.

A study by the Southeast European Small Arms and Light Weapons Control Center (SEESAC) indicates that nearly 30% of victims of illegal firearms are women.

The Balkan Security Network reports that “the main land route for arms smuggling in the region runs through Serbia, Croatia, Slovenia, Austria, Hungary, and Slovakia. The maritime route to Italy originates from Croatia, Montenegro, and Albania, while a hybrid route exists between Albania, North Macedonia, and Greece. The region also serves as a transit point for weapons from Turkey, with Bulgaria being the primary entry point”.

Citing research by the Global Initiative Against Transnational Organized Crime experts warn that “after the war in Ukraine ends, Balkan criminal groups could exploit established smuggling networks and infrastructure to distribute fresh weaponry from the East”.

Upon receiving the EU-donated equipment, North Macedonia’s Minister of Internal Affairs, Panče Toškovski, stated that the fight against illegal weapons is a top priority for the Ministry of Internal Affairs.

“The implementation of this project is of the utmost importance for the Ministry of Internal Affairs, as it reaffirms our commitment to achieving the objectives of the Roadmap for Small Arms and Light Weapons Control. In particular, it supports the adoption of a legal framework for arms control that will be fully aligned with the EU legislative framework and the standardised regulatory framework for explosives control in the region, both in the Western Balkans and beyond”, said Toškovski upon receiving the donation.

The $200,000 donation is part of the “Enhancing Forensic and Crime Scene Investigation Capacities for Strengthening Criminal Justice Control over Small Arms and Light Weapons” project implemented by UNDP under the Roadmap for Small Arms and Light Weapons Control in the Western Balkans, of which North Macedonia is a signatory. The project is funded by the United Nations Multilateral Trust Fund for Small Arms and Light Weapons in the Western Balkans, supported by Germany, Sweden, the Netherlands, France, the United Kingdom, and Norway, with backing from the European Union. The project aims to modernise forensic and crime scene investigation (CSI) units in North Macedonia to improve crime scene processing and evidence collection. This will enhance investigations, strengthen international evidence exchange, and increase the efficiency of the criminal justice system. The project will upgrade ballistic facilities and operations within the Ministry of the Interior’s Forensics Department, as well as enhance the analytical, technical, and investigative capabilities of CSI units. Additionally, it will incorporate a gender perspective focused on preventing gender-based violence by sensitising CSI staff and improving the tracking of domestic violence cases involving firearms through a dedicated module in North Macedonia’s Police Information Management System.

The donation includes universal and specialised investigation kits, cameras, computers, and hardware for crime scene analysis. Forensics and crime scene investigations play a crucial role in the criminal justice system when dealing with firearm-related cases. Through ballistic analysis, footprint and fingerprint examinations, forensic and investigative teams provide key evidence that helps solve crimes and prevent future violence.

First eco-industrial park in the Western Balkans

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The first Eco-Industrial Park in the Western Balkans is set to be developed in Šabac, Serbia, thanks to a partnership between the European Union (EU), the International Finance Corporation (IFC), and local authorities. This milestone initiative aims to accelerate sustainable industrial development, aligning with EU environmental standards and the Green Agenda for the Western Balkans.

Backed by a €3.6 million EU grant through the Western Balkans Investment Framework, the programme will demonstrate the feasibility of EIPs through four pilot projects, showcasing how industries can cut pollution, optimize resources, and boost economic performance. The Šabac Greenfield EIP will serve as a flagship model for low-carbon industrial development, helping the region transition away from fossil fuels and strengthen its competitiveness in EU markets.

“Hosting Serbia’s first Eco-Industrial Park is a proud moment for our city. This initiative strengthens our local economy and sets a precedent for sustainable growth,” said Aleksandar Pajić, Mayor of Šabac.

The EIP initiative, led by IFC in partnership with the EU, seeks to attract sustainable investments and integrate the region into European value chains. Alongside pilot projects, it also includes developing policy frameworks and engaging the private sector to drive investments in green technologies.

“This project is a major step in the Western Balkans’ green transition,” said Plamena Halacheva, Deputy Head of the EU Delegation to Serbia. “By launching the Eco-Industrial Park initiative, we are driving innovation and advancing the circular economy as part of our commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.”

Scaling Up Sustainable Industry

The Šabac Greenfield EIP is one of two pilot projects in Serbia, alongside MIND Park Brownfield EIP, which focuses on retrofitting an existing industrial zone with sustainable solutions. In total, five pilot projects across the Western Balkans will serve as benchmarks for the region’s sustainable industrial transformation.

“Together with the EU and local authorities, we are building a scalable model that unlocks long-term investment opportunities while addressing environmental challenges,” said Nicolas Marquier, IFC Regional Manager for the Western Balkans.

This collaboration highlights the Western Balkans’ potential to lead in sustainable industry and attract green investments, paving the way for a cleaner, more competitive economy.

EIB Global channelled €693 million to the countries of the Western Balkans in 2024

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  • EIB Global invested €527 million in loans for new projects, mobilising nearly €3.1 billion in new investment, supported by €166 million in grants 
  • New projects will accelerate the green transition and promote the competitiveness of economies. 
  • The Bank continued its support for energy efficiency and renewable energy projects, reaching a record €213 million in signed agreements in 2024 
  In 2024, the European Investment Bank Group (EIB Global) financing for new projects reached €693 million in loans and grants for the countries of the Western Balkans for energy security, sustainable transport, climate action, digital and human capital development. Out of these funds, €527 million have been signed in loans, €164 million in EU grants under the Western Balkans Investment Framework (WBIF) and €2 million in grants under the EIB’s Economic Resilience Initiative. The largest share of new signatures was allocated to sustainable transport (43%), clean energy projects (31%, a record) and the private sector (20%).  “We are fully committed to supporting all countries in the region on their path to EU integration” remarked EIB Vice-President Robert de Groot. “Achieving higher convergence requires significant reforms and investments, which is why combined financial and technical support under the Team Europe umbrella provides a coherent, continuous and extensive support. The latest Growth Plan exemplifies initiatives that can accelerate market integration, economic growth, and EU accession ambitions.”    Supporting energy projects  In the energy sector, the Bank provided €213 million in loans for projects such as the rehabilitation of several large hydropower plants and the installation of advanced electricity meters in Serbia, as well as the construction of one of the largest solar photovoltaic plant near Pristina in Kosovo. The plant will address the energy needs of over 29 000 households and cut 174 000 tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions annually.   “As the EU Climate Bank, we have intensified our efforts to promote a green transition in each and every country and are steadfast in our commitment to support the decarbonisation of regional economies to ensure energy security and reduce environmental pollution,” said Vice-President De Groot.  The bank also made available  the Greening Financial Systems (GFS) advisory programme in North Macedonia and Albania to enhance national and local banks’ climate risk management practices and stimulate green investments among companies. Several EIB-financed projects benefited from technical assistance under the WBIF and the Joint Assistance to Support Projects in European Regions (JASPERS) advisory program. Since the signing of its third mandate in autumn 2023, JASPERS experts have been working on 32 advisory assignments across the Western Balkans, covering transport, water, energy, urban, and digital sectors.     Advancing sustainable connectivity   In 2024, EIB Global continued to support the transport sector with €295 million in new financing, for projects such as the rehabilitation of railway sections in Albania and Montenegro. These infrastructure improvements along the extended Trans-European Transport Network (TEN-T) will increase railway capacity, efficiency, and safety, promoting a shift from road to sustainable mobility and generally improve regional connectivity. The bank signed a €79 million EU grant for the construction of the section on the Corridor Vc in Bosnia and Herzegovina.    Driving job creation and climate action among regional companies  The bank invested €151 million to support the expansion of, and investments in innovation and clean energy projects among local companies, creating employment and economic growth in the region. Thanks to the first impact-based credit line, small businesses in the region have created new jobs, training and career development opportunities for people from vulnerable groups. In addition, under the EU’s “WB EDIF Guarantee Facility for SME Resilience”, the European Investment Fund, part of the EIB Group, provided guarantees to local banks, which are expected to unlock over €750 million worth of loans to some 13 000 small businesses, sustaining around 180 000 jobs.     Background information     About the EIB   The European Investment Bank is the long-term lending institution of the European Union, owned by its Member States. It finances investments that contribute to EU policy objectives. EIB projects bolster competitiveness, drive innovation, promote sustainable development, enhance social and territorial cohesion, and support a just and swift transition to climate neutrality.    The EIB is one of the leading international financiers in the Western Balkans. For detailed information on the EIB’s activities in this region, visit www.eib.org/en/publications/the-eib-in-the-western-balkans.    About the EIF  The European Investment Fund (EIF) is part of the European Investment Bank Group. Its central mission is to support Europe’s micro, small and medium-sized businesses by helping them to access finance. The EIF designs and develops venture and growth capital, guarantees and microfinance instruments that specifically target this market segment. In this role, the EIF fosters EU objectives in support of innovation, research and development, entrepreneurship, growth and employment. For more information, see https://www.eif.org