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EU–Western Balkans Summit concludes with Brussels Declaration

Written by WeBalkans on . Posted in News.

EU and Western Balkans leaders met in Brussels on 18 December. The meeting served as an opportunity to pursue the new momentum for the strategic partnership between the European Union and the Western Balkans, including a reflection on how to strengthen that partnership and move forward together towards a joint future in the European Union. The summit, chaired for the first time by António Costa in his new role as President of the European Council, emphasised shared connections. “We belong to the same European family. We share the same continent, but most importantly, we share common values and a common history,” Costa remarked, highlighting the unity between the EU and the Western Balkans. The summit concluded with the Brussels Declaration, underscoring the shared vision of the EU and the Western Balkans. “We share a common future and face urgent challenges that we can only overcome together. We owe it to our citizens to build a future of peace and prosperity, founded on shared principles, values, and common interests,” the declaration stated. The full text of the Brussels Declaration can be read here. The main topics of discussion were:
  • Enhancing the EU–Western Balkans integration through the Growth Plan
  • Deepening the EU’s political and policy engagement, including foreign and security policy
  • Building an economic foundation for the future and mitigating the impact of Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine
  • Co-operation in migration management and the fight against corruption and organised crime
  Enhancing integration with the Western Balkans through the Growth Plan Launched in 2023, the Growth Plan aims to further integrate the Western Balkans partners closer to the integration within the EU single market. It focuses on advancing regional economic cooperation, fostering sustainable development, and incentivising critical reforms aligned with EU standards. “We commend five of the partners for the preparation and submission of their reform agendas, approved by the Commission, which will be the basis of implementation of the Growth Plan”, the Brussels declaration noted, highlighting the progress made towards building a stronger economic and political connection. The European Union continues to stand as the Western Balkans’ closest partner, serving as the region’s main investor, trading partner, and primary donor. Recognising this relationship, the EU encourages Western Balkan partners to actively communicate their alignment with EU values and commitment to reform through visible actions and public engagement, reinforced by strategic communication efforts. Both the EU and the Western Balkans share the responsibility of addressing common challenges. The Brussels Declaration highlighted significant progress, particularly in enabling visa-free travel for people across the entire Western Balkans region to the Schengen area. This summit marked another step in implementing the European Council’s 2024–2029 strategic agenda, underscoring the commitment to strengthening partnerships and addressing shared priorities.

From crisis to opportunity: A new era for trade in the Western Balkans

Written by WeBalkans on . Posted in Stories.

During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, borders became choke points, threatening the flow of essential goods and endangering the livelihoods of millions. Supply chains strained under the weight of delays, and businesses faced mounting losses. Yet, in the face of this crisis, an innovative solution emerged—the Green Lanes Initiative. 

Developed through a collaboration between the Transport Community, CEFTA, and the European Union, Green Lanes were designed to be more than a stopgap measure. They represented a bold new vision for connectivity, built on modernisation, digitalisation, and cooperation. The results? Nearly 20 years’ worth of cumulative border waiting time saved and a foundation for a more resilient trade network. 

The story of transformation 

For Matej Zakonjšek, Director of the Transport Community, Green Lanes have made a tangible difference. “Trucks such as this one used to wait too long at border crossings in the Western Balkans. It negatively affected trade, CO2 emissions, and road safety,” he shares.  

“Thanks to EU support, we are now seeing shorter waiting times, modernised crossings, and safer journeys. This creates real value for our citizens, businesses, and visitors to this beautiful region”

These changes go beyond easing logistical bottlenecks. Green Lanes have become a symbol of what’s possible when regional cooperation flourishes. Governments, customs administrations, and businesses have come together, demonstrating the power of collective action to solve shared challenges. 

 

A vision for the future 

Building on its success, the Green Lanes Initiative is evolving to connect the Western Balkans more deeply with the EU and modernise key border crossings. Digital innovations, such as the SEED+ system and the Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) programme, are streamlining customs processes, reducing delays, and cutting costs. Agreements between countries— like those linking Croatia and Montenegro, Italy and Albania or Greece and North Macedonia —showcase how Green Lanes are becoming a bridge to the EU single market. 

As Danijela Gačević, Acting Director of CEFTA, aptly puts it, “Establishing green lanes between the region and the EU is a game-changer. It makes trade faster, cheaper, and safer, creating more opportunities for businesses and people.” 

Meanwhile, investments of €50 million are upgrading 11 major border points with new infrastructure, digital systems, and enhanced security measures. These include additional lanes, weighbridges, and electronic queuing systems, ensuring faster and more efficient crossings. 

From the perspective of the business community, Stevica Čarapić highlights the urgency of addressing border inefficiencies. “The greatest challenge we are facing today is the huge waiting times at border crossings. This inefficiency affects not just individual countries but the competitiveness of the entire region. With the Green Lanes Initiative, we hope to see significant improvements in cargo flow and cooperation between governments to reduce delays and streamline processes.” 

He also points out that, in some instances, queues have stretched as long as 15 kilometres, with drivers waiting for days to cross. “This is not just a logistical problem; it’s a barrier to progress for everyone in the region,” he adds. 

A human-centred approach 

The Green Lanes Initiative doesn’t just benefit businesses—it transforms lives. Professional drivers now spend less time waiting and more time on the road, reducing stress and improving safety. Travellers face fewer delays, making holidays more enjoyable. Local communities experience the ripple effects of stronger economies and increased job opportunities. 

As Matej observes, “With modernised crossings, we are not only reducing waiting times but also creating a safer and more efficient environment for everyone. This is the best way to add value to our region.” 

The road ahead 

The success of Green Lanes is a testament to the power of partnership. It’s a story of resilience and innovation, showing how crises can inspire lasting change. As the Western Balkans and the EU continue to work together, the vision of seamless connectivity and shared prosperity comes closer to reality. 

By investing in digitalisation, modernisation, and regional cooperation, the Green Lanes Initiative is paving the way for a brighter future. It’s more than a logistical improvement; it’s a movement toward unity, growth, and opportunity for generations to come. 

Solidarity in Action: EU’s Response to Devastating Floods in Bosnia and Herzegovina

Written by WeBalkans on . Posted in Stories.

“Our hearts and thoughts are with the people of Bosnia and Herzegovina, hit by devastating floods. We have activated our EU Civil Protection Mechanism and are sending rescue teams on the ground. This is EU solidarity in action,” said Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, ensuring the close presence of the EU to help the Bosnia and Herzegovina people overcome the trying times that emerged after catastrophic floods and landslides hit the country on 4 October, claiming 22 lives and leaving many missing. 

 

Catastrophic floods and landslides hit Bosnia and Herzegovina earlier this year, claiming 22 lives and leaving many missing. Events like this require a quick and coordinated response, both to help people in need and to manage the disaster. The European Union responded quickly by activating its Civil Protection Mechanism.  Search and rescue teams were deployed, and the EU’s Copernicus Emergency Management Service (EMS) provided satellite data to assist local authorities. These efforts helped restore vital infrastructure and support affected communities, which assisted local authorities to manage the disaster and restore vital infrastructure. Flash floods and landslides devastated regions around Jablanica and Konjic, homes were buried, roads and railways were destroyed, and entire communities were left isolated.

The EU’s commitment to be there for the people of Bosnia and Herzegovina was further reinforced by Janez Lenarčič, who said, “Bosnia and Herzegovina’s first responders are not facing this deadly disaster alone. Through the EU Civil Protection Mechanism, 12 countries have offered to send emergency assistance. Search and rescue teams from Croatia, Slovenia, Montenegro, and Serbia are already on the ground, supporting the local crisis response. This is a strong expression of EU solidarity in a time of great need,”. Teams from these countries arrived by 5 October to search for missing persons, remove debris, and restore critical infrastructure. Additionally, emergency supplies such as shelter materials were sent by Albania, Hungary, Romania, Montenegro, and Türkiye to help displaced families. Additionally, the EU coordinated the delivery of emergency supplies, including shelter materials from Albania, Hungary, Romania, Montenegro, and Türkiye, to support displaced families.

 

The Copernicus Emergency Management Service (EMS) played a key role in responding to the disaster. It provided satellite images to assess the damage, map flooded areas, and identify the most severely affected regions. This data allowed rescue teams prioritise their efforts and reach isolated communities more effectively. The Copernicus EMS had also been activated earlier in the summer to assist during the widespread wildfires in Albania and North Macedonia, once again demonstrating its critical role in managing natural disasters across the Western Balkans.

As the flood response continued, high-quality satellite images and damage assessments were regularly provided, helping guide the rescue efforts on the ground. The EU’s coordinated action, through both its Civil Protection Mechanism and the Copernicus EMS, demonstrated its unwavering commitment to supporting Bosnia and Herzegovina in a time of crisis. By 11 October, after several days of continuous rescue and recovery work, the emergency satellite services were concluded, marking the end of the EU’s immediate response phase.

‘Livanjski sir’ receives EU protection

Written by WeBalkans on . Posted in News.

‘Livanjski sir’ today becomes a product with a prestigious EU Protected Geographical Indication, joining a list of 3,639 products, whose quality and traditions are recognised and protected through the EU’s register for agricultural geographical indications. The EU’s quality schemes and geographical indications have a strong reputation across the world, and receiving PGI status is expected to bring significant benefits for producers of ‘Livanjski sir’ when marketing themselves, in particular for small-scale producers.

 

In a video message to mark this milestone, the Head of the EU Delegation and EU Special Representative in BiH Luigi Soreca said, “As of today, Livanjski sir joins products such as Champagne, Parmigiano Reggiano and Jamón ibérico in receiving trademark protection from the EU. Congratulations to Bosnia and Herzegovina! ‘Livanjski sir’ is the first food product in the Western Balkans to receive EU protection. Our hope is there will be more. And we stand ready to advise Bosnia and Herzegovina’s outstanding food and drink producers how they can apply for and benefit from the EU’s geographical indication and quality schemes”.

 

The uniqueness of ‘Livanjski sir’ comes from the exceptional quality of the milk used, produced in a region where Mediterranean and continental climates meet. In this distinctive environment, with its mountain pastures and karst fields, there is rich vegetation and local aromatic herbs, which contribute to the specific taste of the cheese. Produced in Livno and neighbouring municipalities, ‘Livanjski sir’ has earned a global reputation for its quality and tradition. Since the late 19th century, its production methods have been passed down through generations, ensuring consistent quality.

The protection of “Livanjski sir” is a tangible example of the benefits Bosnia and Herzegovina enjoys as a result of its close partnership with the European Union. The PGI label protects the authenticity of ‘Livanjski sir,’ guaranteeing that only cheese made in designated areas according to traditional methods can carry this name. This label protects not just its unique flavour but also its connection to the region climate, pastures and traditional methods of cheese production, making it a symbol of agricultural excellence in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

 

More information on the EU’s geographical indications and quality schemes, including information on how products are protected can be found here.

Made of Us- An EU Western Balkans Road Trip

Written by WeBalkans on . Posted in Stories.

From EU Member States to the Western Balkans: A journey highlighting how the benefits of EU Membership enrich everyday life.

 

“During my trip to Ljubljana, Slovenia, visiting Ekologi brez meja, an environmental organisation supported by EU green initiatives, I marvelled at how clean and green the city was. Recycling dumpsters, thoughtfully placed and clearly labelled for glass, paper, packaging, and other waste, were visible throughout the city. On a whim, I snapped a photo and shared it on my Instagram story. I had no idea this simple act would resonate so widely. 

Within hours, my inbox was inundated with over 100 messages from followers in North Macedonia, all saying, ‘We need this system in our country!’ The enthusiasm and passion of so many was overwhelming. People shared their frustrations about waste management and their desire for a cleaner, more sustainable environment, emphasising how vital it is to raise awareness and inspire action. 

I was moved by how much people in my country genuinely care about living in a cleaner, greener environment. Their heartfelt responses gave me a renewed sense of hope—a belief that small actions, like sharing ideas and examples, can lead to meaningful change.” 

This testimony from Jelena Spendzarska, a North Macedonian influencer, beautifully illustrates that the benefits of EU membership and the values it represents are not abstract, complex notions. They manifest in the tangible details of everyday life—details that improve our communities, inspire us to think differently, and make us believe in the possibility of a better future. 

Made of Us- Hits the Road Again 

Jelena was part of the “Made of Us – An EU Western Balkans Road Trip” campaign, which brought together 12 influencers split into two teams: Team Blue and Team Yellow. While Jelena’s team visited Croatia, Slovenia, and Italy, Team Yellow explored Hungary, Slovakia, and Austria.  

The campaign, launched in Brussels on 20 October, began with intensive training sessions with DG NEAR and a pool of experts. Equipped with this preparation, the influencers embarked on a road trip in minivans, to visit EU-supported projects and capture how EU Membership transforms societies. 

Throughout the journey, the influencers engaged with locals who shared both positive and critical perspectives, painting a balanced narrative of the EU as a community of benefits, responsibilities, and hard work. Across six EU capitals, the teams documented real-life examples and potential solutions that could inspire the Western Balkans, offering hope and actionable ideas.  

As soon as the “Made of Us” campaign launched in collaboration with influencers, it immediately captured audience attention, leading to a noticeable spike in followers on the WeBalkans Instagram account. The influencers’ visits to EU-funded projects sparked increased engagement, with the audience actively interacting with the content, sharing their thoughts, and amplifying the campaign’s reach. 

In Hungary, they highlighted workforce and education mobility, including the freedom of travel within the Schengen Zone. By showcasing Teqball, a sport supported by EU funds, they illustrated how NextGenEU fosters sports innovation, infrastructure, and cross-border collaboration.   

In Slovakia, they explored access to the single market in education and business, meeting with the Slovak Academic Association for International Cooperation and speaking with entrepreneurs and Erasmus students. 

Austria provided a glimpse into the digital future, as the influencers visited digital hubs driving entrepreneurship and innovation. Social enterprises showed how small businesses could grow and thrive with EU-backed support. 

In Croatia, the focus shifted to youth empowerment, as they attended the European Youth Event (EYE) and explored how programmes like Erasmus+ and NextGenEU promote mobility, skill development, and participation. They also uncovered stories of resilience, such as the EU-funded “Safe and Equal in Emergencies” project, which supports people with disabilities during disasters. Visits to health facilities in Varaždin revealed how EU membership has tangibly improved public health services and overall quality of life. 

Opportunities and work behind 

Slovenia posed a physical challenge as the influencers delved into its ambitious Zero Waste hunt following meeting with Ekologi brez meja. They also visited Komunala Kranj, a company and zero waste resort on Bled.  

Even Venice, a jewel of tourism, revealed the extensive efforts needed to ensure sustainability. The influencers witnessed how projects like REEL and TESTEAT, funded by the EU (Interreg Italy-Croatia Programme), blend tradition and innovation to preserve this iconic destination. 

Beyond the hard work, the campaign included engaging quests inspired by EU-supported initiatives, such as SLIDES and the EU Symbol Hunt, which blended fun with cultural and environmental learning. The campaign highlighted simple yet significant improvements that reflect the EU’s core values—better living standards, mutual respect, tolerance, and peace. 

Winners 

Both, Team Yellow: Farah Hadžiabdić BiH, Martin Jakubis Slovakia, Tamas Majer, Hungary Giorgina (Xhorxhina) Roci, Albania, Laura Falquez Austria and Luka Alerić Serbia and Team Blue– with Juš Čop from Slovenia, Jelena Spendzarska North Macedonia, Floreta Hajdaraj, Italy, Tomislav Pancirov Croatia, Luka Bojanović Montenegro, Agnesa Sejdiu Kosovo, made extraordinary results placing hundreds of posts, reels, appearing on the TV programs in their friendly competition during two weeks travel. They engaged millions of people throughout the Western Balkans and the EU, delivering a compelling narrative of how EU membership may transform lives and showing that the EU is not just about policies and programmes but about diversity, opportunity, and the power of ordinary people to create extraordinary change.  

During the ceremony in Zlatibor, WeBalkans announced winners of Made of Us competition. It was a Blue Team for their great contribution and audience engagement. 

“Since joining the EU, Croatia has prospered immensely, and I am especially delighted to have had the opportunity to share our positive examples with the youth of the Western Balkans. For me, the EU is about people, and this is proof that cooperation and unity bring tangible benefits for all of us” said Tomislav Pancirov, an influencer from Croatia at the reward ceremony

97 new Western Balkan Young European Ambassadors selected to shape the future of the region

Written by WeBalkans on . Posted in News.

The Young European Ambassadors network is growing, with 97 new members ready to get active in shaping the future of the Western Balkans. The recent Call for Applications, which ran from 1 October to 31 October 2024, successfully selected a new generation of passionate young people committed to promoting European values, integration, and cooperation. The Young European Ambassadors (YEA) platform is a creative communication network of future young activists from across the Western Balkans (Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo, Montenegro, North Macedonia, and Serbia).

 

 

The 2024 Call for Applications attracted a remarkable response, with 1,347 applications initiated during the month. Of these, 341 were successfully submitted by young people across the Western Balkans.

 

The communication strategy for the new Call was supported by 50 media pieces across various platforms, including television, radio, and online outlets. Additionally, the YEA members selected during previous Calls helped organise 46 “Info Days” across the region, attracting over 1,300 young attendees. These events provided an opportunity to learn about the programme, ask questions, and understand of the role of YEAs in shaping the future of the Western Balkans within the European Union.

 

One of the key highlights of this year’s application process was the outreach campaign designed to engage young people from diverse and marginalised backgrounds. The initiative specifically targeted those from geographically isolated communities and minority groups, ensuring inclusiveness.

 

After an evaluation process led by the WeBalkans team, in collaboration with the Directorate-General for Neighborhood and Enlargement (DG NEAR), we are happy to welcome :

· YEAs from Albania-Antea Bega, Rixhers Dengo, Kleo Bello, Kevis Beqo, Sibora Sejdini, Mateo Mecani, Geldon Hoxhaj, Maria Vathkruja, Ada Omuri, Sara Kenuti, Fiorela Hoxhaj, Debora Kolgega and Paola Pesjaka

· YEAs from Bosnia and Herzegovina-Amina Hadzic, Alen Kubat, Emina Pasanovic, Petar Spaic, Marija Malic, Mia Selena Lerch, Vanja Gojic, Adna Mujic, Teodora Ruzic, Naida Odobasic, Emina Odobasic, Nudzejma Karajic, Kenan Fehric, Tesnim Karisik Spahic and Azra Mehmedovic

· YEAs from Kosovo*-Aja Gashi, Fatlum Jashari, Mifeta Buhiqi, Embla Dana, Sara Ceshko, Tringa Thaqi, Eljesa Maxhuni, Armira Muqolli, Puhiza Shemsedini, Andrra Kelmendi, Shqiponje Kodraliu, Idea Peja, Visar Kukaqi, Almiea Ljaic, Dea Beslimi, Adriatik Llugiqi, Edlira Dibrani, Dea Barjaktari and Artiola Limani

· YEAs from Montenegro-Nevena Jovanovic, Anton Gjolaj, Danilo Bulatovic, Boris Vukotic, Elif Su Cakmak, Anastasija Dobrilovic, Ivana Martinovic, Bogdan Malavrazic, Vasilica Batricevic, Ivan Scepanovic, Milica Radinovic and Vuk Zizic

· YEAs from North Macedonia-Flori Imeri, Dimitar Atanasovski, Ramanda Shehu, Jana Andreska, Zlatka Kuvendjieska, Emilija Panovska, Antonio Grujevski, Mila Anastasova, Sedef Kjamili, Stefan Atanasovski, Artina Haziri, Katarina Marinkovikj, Bojan Ristovski and Teodora Jolakoska

· YEAs from Serbia-Aleksandar Vukovic, Nikola Slankamenac, Andrea Darabasic, Milos Vico, Dusan Simonovic, Marija Milicevic, Masa Cezek, Ugljesa Dimitrijevic, Aleksandar Petrovic, Teodora Danilovic, Suzana Maric Sejdija, Emilija Bojic, Kristina Jevremovic, Katarina Stojanovic, Anissa Ahmetovic, Vuk Stanojev, Dusan Popovic, Uros Sestovic, Nikola Murganic, Nevena Matic, Mihajlo Kovac and Bogdan Dimic

 

These new members will join the existing, expanding the network to 240. Together they will deepen their knowledge of EU policies, engage with local communities, and represent their peers on the European stage.

 

The new YEAs join at an exciting time for the Western Balkans as the region continues its path towards greater integration with the European Union. Through their work, YEAs will promote understanding, build networks, and encourage dialogue among youth from different backgrounds.

 

They will also champion EU like democracy, the rule of law, and respect for human rights. By strengthening ties between the Western Balkans and the EU, they will showcase the benefits of regional cooperation and integration.

 

The selection of this new generation of Young European Ambassadors demonstrates the European Union’s commitment to investing in youth and equipping them to shape their future. As the YEAs prepare for the year ahead, the hope is to inspire even more young people across the region to engage in active citizenship, drive positive change, and support the EU’s vision for a united and prosperous future.

 

Congratulations to all our new YEAs. For those were not selected this time, we encourage you to join our activities and stay connected with the programme.

Using arts and culture to unite a divided community

Written by WeBalkans on . Posted in Stories.

“We always take pride in being a multinational city, but we realized that we had no space to unite and gather across ethnic lines. Culture in Subotica is often a tool for local authorities to foster divisions among different national groups,” says Gordana Vukov Ciganjik, co-founder of the cultural association Klara i Rosa in Vojvodina, Serbia.  “For example, if the local authorities decide to build three monuments, the Croats will get the smallest one, outside the city centre; the Hungarians will get a bigger one, closer to the centre; and the biggest, most central monuments will be for Serbs. We are not completely separated, there are many mixed marriages; but you’re always forced to define yourself as a nation, not a person,” she explains.  With Klara i Rosa, Gordana – who is an actress by profession – and fellow founder Danijela Mamužić – a sculptor – wanted to offer a place for cultural exchange, dialogue and citizens’ engagement through art beyond ethnic origin.   “We believe that art is a key tool for social change,” says Gordana. “In this day and age – particularly after the pandemic – people are more and more alienated, lonely, and society is more closed off to newcomers. For us, the role of arts and culture is to heal and connect, to build community, to start a dialogue on topics that would be taboo otherwise.” 

Bringing people together through cultural activities 

For the first nine years of its existence, Klara i Rosa had to use public spaces – parks, squares, streets – for its activities. They transformed the yard of an abandoned old cinema into the first open gallery in Subotica, with arts exhibitions every month. EED funding has changed this, enabling the group to rent a space for their activities for the first time.   These events range from movie screenings and concerts to ceramic courses and theater workshops, all in the spirit of cultural exchange and community-building through art.   They have also opened Plac, a radio station that allows everyone to be a creator. In their space, a local high school philosophy teacher hosts public discussions on all kinds of topics, from politics to love and death. Their activities are held in Serbian-Bosniak-Croatian (BHS) BHS and Hungarian, but more and more often also in English, to include foreigners who have just moved to Subotica and to give citizens an opportunity to practice the language.  Gordana describes an annual retreat for female artists and activists as one of the organization’s biggest successes to date: “Some participants said it changed their life. They came from all over the Balkans, and had a unique opportunity to meet, make new connections, start new projects.”  Another successful initiative was a Romeo-and-Juliet-inspired interactive theater workshop with high school students from Subotica, half of them BHS-speaking and half of them Hungarian-speaking. “These teenagers are going to the same school, but are usually divided along language lines,” says Gordana, “This project was a unique space for them to meet. Without opportunities to interact with peers from different language communities, political polarization grows.”  Sometimes ideas for new events are born by chance: a conversation on food with a volunteer from Russia sparked the idea of ​​a cooking class. Other times, people come to the Klara i Rosa office with ideas. “It’s important for us to keep our door open to new initiatives,” says Gordana, “This helps us develop an audience and keeps our program varied and interesting. It’s also empowering for the community, so they can feel ownership of our cultural space.”  Community support also came through with a fundraising campaign that allowed Klara i Rosa to raise the equivalent of €3,800 for future activities. “It might not seem like much, but it showed that we are supported by a community with shared interests and goals,” says Gordana.  This article reflects the views of the grantees featured and does not necessarily represent the official opinion of the EED and WeBalkans.            

Growing with EED support 

As Gordana sees it, EED’s support has empowered them to have ambitious goals for the future. They have begun a dialogue with local authorities, and are further developing their youth audience, particularly among Hungarian speakers. They also plan to increase collaborations and capacity-building activities with like-minded actors to serve their community in the best way they can.  “We have big plans and dreams, and I think that thanks to our team we’ll succeed. Our biggest treasure is people,” says Gordana. “We want to continue to connect people through art and to bring people together from other places. We want to share our culture, and we want to help people understand that they don’t need to leave Subotica for a better life, that they can be happy here.” 

New Leadership for EIB in the Western Balkans: A Step Towards Growth and EU Integration

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The European Investment Bank (EIB Global) has named Damien Sorrell as the new Head of its Regional Hub for the Western Balkans. With this fresh leadership, the Bank is doubling down on its efforts to support the region’s economic development, green transition, and progress towards joining the EU.

 

From its base in Belgrade, the EIB’s regional hub works closely with Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo*, North Macedonia, Montenegro, and Serbia. Over the last decade, the Bank has invested more than €11 billion to help transform the region—funding everything from safer transport routes to modern schools, hospitals, and renewable energy projects.

 

“We’ve built a strong presence on the ground, helping the Western Balkans prepare for EU membership with better infrastructure, greener energy, and stronger market connections,” said EIB Vice-President Robert de Groot.

 

Damien Sorrell, who brings a wealth of international experience, is excited to take on the role. “The Western Balkans has enormous potential, and we’re here to help unlock it—whether it’s creating opportunities for businesses, improving quality of life, or supporting their EU ambitions,” he said.

 

This new chapter in EIB’s work promises to deliver even greater impact as it partners with the Western Balkans to build a brighter, more connected future.

 

About EIB Global

EIB Global is the international arm of the European Investment Bank. It supports projects worldwide that align with EU goals, like green energy and sustainable growth. For more information about EIB Global’s work in the Western Balkans, visit www.eib.org.

Young European Ambassadors Spark Youth Engagement: Fresh Voices in the Western Balkans make change happen

Written by WeBalkans on . Posted in News.

On 1 October 2024, the Young European Ambassadors (YEA) network launched its call for new members, kicking off an energetic tour across the Western Balkans. Throughout October, 31 YEAs organised 46 info sessions in over 30 communities, spanning cities like Tirana, Teslić, Ferizaj, Veles, Ulcinj, and Pančevo. During these sessions, YEAs shared stories of their mission, experiences, and the future of the YEA network as the region’s most influential communicators. The campaign inspired youth to take an active role in their communities, promoting engagement and positive change. 

 

The events drew more than 1,250 young participants, resulting in over 340 applications from eager candidates looking to join the network. The newest members will be announced on 6 December, injecting fresh enthusiasm into the mission for 2025. 

 

Expanding Media Reach with a Fresh, Youthful Tone 

The campaign’s vibrant and upbeat approach attracted substantial media coverage, reflecting the dynamic spirit of the YEA network. With 25 television segments (over 250 minutes of airtime), 17 online articles (totalling about 5,000 words), and 8 radio features (adding 60 minutes of broadcast time), the YEAs effectively amplified their message. The youthful, high-energy tone showcased how EU-backed initiatives empower young people, encouraging them to seize the opportunities offered through the YEA programme. 

 

Strengthening Regional Ties and Promoting EU Support 

Through this extensive outreach, the YEAs underlined the EU’s commitment to youth development, dialogue, and cultural exchange across the Western Balkans. The campaign emphasised the programme’s role as a bridge connecting young people in the region with the EU, fostering collaboration and shared values. YEAs highlighted how joining the network empowers youth to become changemakers in their own communities, further strengthening regional cooperation. 

 

What’s Next? 

As the application phase concludes, the YEA network gears up for the YEA Winner Announcement Event on 6 December, where the new wave of young changemakers will be introduced. Stay tuned and say #YEStoYEA! 

Culture Connects people and initiatives

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The “Culture Connects” campaign of WeBalkans was featured at the Regional Conference on Youth Cultural Cooperation that was held at Europe House Belgrade and organised by the Regional Cooperation Council’s (RCC) Western Balkans Youth Lab 2.

 

The event assembled artists, EU representatives, and officials from the Regional Youth Cooperation Office (RYCO) and the RCC to delve discuss cultural collaboration across the region.

 

Ognjen Marković, the Team Leader of RCC’s WB Youth Lab 2, opened the conference with a strong call for enhanced support systems to tap into the full creative and visionary potential of the youth. “By investing in our young talents and supporting their initiatives, we are fortifying the cultural fabric of the Western Balkans and laying the groundwork for a more inclusive and dynamic future,” he said.

 

The presentation of the “Culture Connects” campaign underscored the importance of cultural collaboration and emphasized how diverse cultures of the Western Balkans strengthen the region’s vibrancy and resilience, highlighting the significant role of EU support through programmes like the Creative Europe programme, CC4WB which bolsters cultural initiatives in the region.

 

That was also highlighted by Richard Maša, Head of Operations, Section II, at the EU Delegation to Serbia, who reaffirmed the EU’s commitment to nurturing youth potential and empowerment.

“Supporting culture and cultural exchange is crucial in bringing people together and fostering unity in our diversity,”

The conference highlighted the cultural sector’s key role as a catalyst for economic growth and community cohesion, marking a vital step toward a more unified cultural landscape where young artists do more than participate—they actively shape the region’s cultural narrative.

Marija Bulat, Head of the Local Branch Office at RYCO, discussed the transformative power of cultural exchanges. “Exchanges are crucial for breaking down barriers, fostering empathy, and promoting regional cooperation,” she explained, adding that RYCO’s Western Balkans Youth Cultural Fund is paving new paths for peacebuilding through art and culture.

In addition to presenting the “Culture Connects” campaign, the conference featured a strong collaboration with WeBalkans. Young European Ambassador, Adi Softić moderated the session “Creating Sustainable Cultural Networks.” Our cultural ambassador, Mara Prohaska, joined campaign expert to present a segment on documentary art production. Additionally, the keynote speech was delivered by young artist Hanna Dujmović, who also carries out a role of Culture Connects cultural ambassadors.