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Ursula von der Leyen hosts Western Balkan leaders to advance €6 Billion Growth Plan

Written by WeBalkans on . Posted in News.

19 September 2024 – Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, hosted a working lunch in Brussels with the leaders of the six Western Balkan partners. The meeting focused on reviewing progress on the €6 billion Growth Plan aimed at bringing the economies and markets of the Western Balkans closer to the European Union. Attendees included Edi Rama, Prime Minister of Albania; Borjana Krišto, Chairwoman of the Council of Ministers of Bosnia and Herzegovina; Albin Kurti, Prime Minister of Kosovo; Milojko Spajić, Prime Minister of Montenegro; Hristijan Mickoski, Prime Minister of North Macedonia; and Aleksandar Vučić, President of Serbia.

 

Gert Jan Koopman, Director-General of the European Commission’s Directorate-General for Neighbourhood and Enlargement Negotiations, accompanied President von der Leyen and Commissioner Oliver Várhelyi at the meeting. Koopman described the gathering as “a great moment to review progress on the Growth Plan and discuss the reforms which will unlock €6 billion from the Reform & Growth Facility.”

 

President von der Leyen reaffirmed the European aspirations of the Western Balkan partners, stating: “All six countries belong in Europe. This is what we are working on.” She emphasised the EU’s commitment to integrating the region both economically and politically. The €6 billion Growth Plan is designed to foster economic development, support reforms, accelerate the integration of Western Balkan economies with the EU market and boost the region’s economic integration through the Common Regional Market.

 

The plan significantly incentivises the Western Balkan partners to accelerate reforms through gradual integration,  making them one step closer to EU membership.

Every small step matters! #EUBeachCleanup Day

Written by WeBalkans on . Posted in YEA Blogs.

Marija Blazevic (Young European Ambassador)

 

One of the key areas for Young European Ambassadors and a core value is environmental protection, so every year we showcase our contribution to nature and ecosystems through various actions! We aim to rase awareness about this issue through activism and include as many people as possible.

#EUBeachCleanup is a global awareness-raising and ocean activism campaign that mobilises people worldwide against marine pollution. Annually, over 40,000 participants engage in coastal cleanup events. In 2023, 45,700 participants took part in 555 events, spanning 44 countries across all inhabited continents.

Empowering Youth and Protecting the Environment

 

This marks the 4th consecutive year that the Young European Ambassadors from the Western Balkans have participated. This year, we had the privilege of hosting Young European Ambassadors from across the Western Balkans in Ulcinj, Montenegro, as part of a traditional EU beach clean-up event. It wasn’t just another clean-up—this time, it took place at the Salina, a site of great environmental significance. The Salina reminds us of the incredible potential Montenegro holds and the importance of safeguarding this precious space. Young European Ambassadors have taken part in this global campaign three years in a row: Albania in 2021, Kosovo in 2022, and North Macedonia in 2023.

Moments That Stood Out

 

What truly made this event unforgettable was the energy and enthusiasm of the high school students from Ulcinj. Despite a cloudy day threatening rain, their spirit brightened the atmosphere and uplifted everyone involved. Luckily, the weather was kind to us, and we divided into teams to get started. Our mission was simple: to make the area more accessible and cleaner while contributing to our community. Along the way, we talked, laughed, and shared our commitment to environmental protection.

We also wanted to send a clear message to the authorities—that there are citizens who care deeply about the ecological state of our country and countries and that we are ready to help. We understand that a healthy environment means a healthy future for us all.

Even though we were physically tired, our minds were buzzing with ideas and conversations. After a short break, we started with the next part of the event—presentations and discussions with guest speakers. We shared ideas, discussed how to implement them, and identified what it would take to make these ideas a reality.

 

Key Messages

 

One of our key objectives was to inspire the high school students to think outside the box, to be persistent, to speak up, and to never doubt their ideas. We wanted them to believe that anything is possible—because it truly is. And they proved us right, quickly showing that they have plenty of ideas and are ready to act on them. As young people who use our knowledge, platforms, and roles to set an example, it meant the world to us to see that every step forward matters.

 Opportunities: What’s Next?

 

We arrived at this beach clean-up a little worried that the rain might leave us heading home with colds, but instead, we returned healthy, full of impressions, and inspired by the young people who are only beginning to tap into their potential. And we’re here to support them every step of the way.

As part of European Mobility Week, from September 16th to 22nd, we’ll continue these impactful activities, this time in the capital city of Podgorica. On Friday, September 20th, we’ll host a clean-up at Ribnica, where we invite all citizens of Podgorica to join us. Together, we can set an example that we are stronger when we act as one.

 

The Role of Youth in Shaping a Greener Future

 

We know that it’s not just about marking specific days or weeks with these actions—it’s about fostering a society that thinks green, acts healthier, and is ready to contribute not just when it’s officially observed, but every day. As young people, we have a crucial role to play in shaping a future for both the EU and the Western Balkans that prioritises sustainability and environmental stewardship. By working together and embracing the values of the EU—democracy, equality, and respect for the environment—we can truly make a difference.

 

Conclusion: Call to Action

 

Our takeaway from this experience is simple: when young people come together, amazing things happen. The enthusiasm and dedication we witnessed during the clean-up are proof that small actions can create meaningful change. We encourage you to get involved, whether it’s by participating in future clean-ups, leading your own environmental initiatives, or smply raising awareness in your community.

Let’s continue working toward a greener, more sustainable future—not just for one week, but every day. Together, we can build a healthier, more inclusive Europe, one step at a time.

 

Connecting Bosnia and Herzegovina to a brighter future

Written by WeBalkans on . Posted in News.

The inauguration of the new Herzegovina Bridge which extends nearly 1km across the Neretva River, along with the Počitelj-Zvirovići subsection of the highway, marks a major infrastructure achievement in Bosnia and Herzegovina. As part of Corridor Vc, this important transportation route will improve travel times, increase traffic safety, and strengthen economic relations. In line with the European Union’s Global Gateway strategy, the project has been financed with a €5 million EU grant under the Western Balkans Investment Fund, as well as a €105 million loan from the European Investment Bank (EIB Global), allocated to the entire Počitelj-Bijača section.

 

“Together with all partners in this project, we are delighted to see the completion of this pivotal section along Corridor Vc, which creates a direct highway link between Bosnia and Herzegovina and Croatia, and further to the rest of the European Union. As one of the largest in the region, this impressive new bridge and related road infrastructure will generate new economic opportunities for people in both countries by accelerating trade, commuting and travel. The EIB continues to be a reliable partner for the Western Balkans with over €15 billion invested to date, laying the foundation for improved connectivity and prosperity in the region,” remarked EIB Vice-President Robert de Groot.

 

The Počitelj-Zvirovići sub-section includes an 11.7 km-long motorway, a tollbooth interchange with access roads, a regional junction, three viaducts, and a tunnel. The main feature is the Herzegovina Bridge which rises over 100 metres and carries four highway lanes within a single, unified structure, making it unique and one of the largest bridges in the region.

 

Stefano Ellero, Head of Cooperation at the EU Office to Bosnia and Herzegovina, underlined that the completion of the bridge is a symbol of progress, cooperation and the lasting partnership between Bosnia and Herzegovina and the European Union. “It gives me great joy to see the official opening of the Herzegovina Bridge today. The bridge is more than just a piece of infrastructure- it symbolises the power of connection, linking communities and countries across the Neretva River. It shows what we can achieve when we work together towards a common goal for a better future. This bridge will enable faster and safer travel for people and goods, boost business and tourism and drive regional development,” said Mr Ellero.

 

Prime Minister of the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina Nermin Nikšić added: “We are committed to taking decisive steps towards joining the EU, and this is one of the crucial projects on that path. By constructing the corridor through Bosnia and Herzegovina, we are integrating into European communication, economic, and broader societal flows. The 11 km section that we are opening today holds special symbolic and practical significance.”

 

Chairwoman of the Council of Ministers of Bosnia and Herzegovina Borjana Krišto stated: “This bridge is not only beautiful, but also serves a unique purpose. It is a key link between the north and south  of Bosnia and Herzegovina, as well as a connection to the EU via Croatia, enabling transport connectivity that will ensure multiple developments in the economy and industry.”

 

Denis Lasić, Director of JP Autoceste FBIH and host of the inauguration ceremony stated that the construction of the motorway was a challenging task, but it also provided a significant economic boost for the country.

 

Corridor Vc is a major Pan-European transport route that stretches from Budapest, Hungary, through Croatia and Bosnia and Herzegovina to the Adriatic port of Ploče in Croatia. The corridor plays a vital role in facilitating trade and transportation across Southeast Europe, connecting key markets and promoting regional integration.

Reviving old traditions: The pottery journey of Veles teens

Written by WeBalkans on . Posted in Stories.

Young artisans in Veles rediscover their heritage through the revival of traditional pottery craftsmanship. Walking through the narrow, steep streets of Veles, North Macedonia, feels like stepping back in time. The town, with its cobblestone paths and traditional stone houses, echoes a past where the art of pottery thrived. Among the most iconic spots in Veles is the alley of poetry, where celebrated poet Kocho Racin was born. Racin wasn’t just a poet; he also dabbled in pottery—a craft that was once the heartbeat of this town. His work, alongside that of other artisans, was so highly regarded that some pieces were even exported to Western Europe. Fast forward to today, and pottery in Veles is almost a lost art. But thanks to a new initiative, the craft is making a comeback, led by a new generation of young artisans. Anastasija Davcheva and Antonio Trajkovski, both 14, are part of a group of 25 students from Veles who have discovered a passion for pottery through workshops supported by the EU and UNDP. These workshops are part of the “Ethnic Creative Workshops for Revival of Old Crafts,” funded under the Regional Programme on Local Democracy in the Western Balkans (ReLOaD). Antonio was initially unsure about the workshops.

When I first joined, pottery felt strange to me. But over time, it became more interesting. Now, I’d rather create with clay than play games on my phone. Pottery is a really interesting craft.

Antonio Trajkovski “When I first joined, pottery felt strange to me,” he says. “But over time, it became more interesting. Now, I’d rather create with clay than play games on my phone. Pottery is a really interesting craft.” Anastasija shares a similar sentiment. She finds the workshops “fun,” especially when working on the pottery wheel and drawing designs. These workshops are led by Goce Stanchev, one of the last four remaining ceramic artists in Veles. Despite initial scepticism, Stanchev has seen a growing interest among the children.

If we manage to turn even two out of 20 children into potters, it will be a great success.

For more information on the EU funded ReLOaD program, visit the website page.               Pottery has deep roots in Veles. In the early 20th century, many families in the town were engaged in pottery, producing pieces that were known far beyond the borders of North Macedonia. This connection to tradition makes the revival of pottery even more significant, both for the town’s heritage and its future. Stanchev believes that for pottery and other traditional crafts to survive, they need to be integrated into the education system. “There is a future in pottery, but it requires encouragement,” he says. “My wife and I have been professionally engaged in this craft for 15 years. There is demand in the market, but not enough people to meet it. I’m proof that one can make a living from pottery.” This initiative in Veles is just one of 50 projects supported by the ReLOaD programme in North Macedonia over the past three years. These projects focus on empowering young people, promoting social cohesion, protecting the environment, and preserving cultural heritage. For these young participants, the pottery workshops are more than just an after-school activity—they’re a way to connect with their heritage and a potential path to a future career. As Anastasija puts it, “It would be nice to keep pottery as a craft because it is part of the tradition of our country.” This story shows how old crafts can find new life through the enthusiasm of young people, guided by the wisdom of those who have kept these traditions alive. It’s a powerful reminder that even in a digital age, hands-on creativity and connection to heritage remain valuable and fulfilling.

Discovering the beauty of sustainable farming at Milo Selo

Written by WeBalkans on . Posted in YEA Blogs.

Hello, my name is Džulisa, and I am a Young European Ambassador from Bosnia and Herzegovina!

 

This summer, I had the opportunity to visit Milo Selo, a farm located in the small town of Lukavac in Bosnia and Herzegovina, along with my fellow YEAs – Ademir, Amina, Armin, Dragana, and Hana. The farm spans 25 hectares of untouched nature near Mount Ozren and is about 5 kilometres from the beautiful Modrac Lake. What makes this farm so special, besides its stunning location, are the two small rivers, Bukovica and Lukavčić, that flow through the property, along with several natural springs scattered across the land.

Milo Selo is in the perfect spot for growing organic products, adhering to strict farming methods that respect and care for the natural world. It is a place that evokes old traditions, where every step is taken with great care for nature and the environment. The farmers here are dedicated to upholding these values while also growing high-quality, healthy food. To me, this farm stands out as a shining example of sustainable farming in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

In the past two years, Milo Selo has received funding twice from the EU4AgriRecovery project, which has helped the farm grow and improve. First, in 2022, they received funds for new machinery that enhanced the production of cheese and milk. These machines have made a significant difference, enabling the farm to produce more, maintain high quality, and meet the demand for their dairy products. Thanks to this support, they have been able to expand their business and reach more customers. In 2024, they received funds to set up greenhouses for growing vegetables. These greenhouses have allowed the farm to cultivate a wider variety of vegetables throughout the year, regardless of the weather. This has increased their production and enabled them to provide fresh, organic produce to the local community all year round.

The untouched nature around Milo Selo adds a unique charm to the entire experience. With its clean waters, fresh air, and rich soil, the environment is perfect for growing food that is both delicious and healthy.

 

Our visit to Milo Selo opened our eyes to the importance of sustainable farming. With help from the EU4AgriRecovery project, the farm has not only bounced back from past challenges but has also set a high standard for organic farming in the region. It demonstrates what can be achieved when we work together with nature, respecting its cycles and resources. I left feeling inspired and hopeful for the future.

YEAs at Sarajevo Film Festival 2024

Written by WeBalkans on . Posted in YEA Blogs.

Hello! My name is Emilija Novaković, and I’m a third-generation Young European Ambassador (YEA) from Serbia. Together with my fellow YEAs: Jovana Jaćimović from Montenegro, Suhel Ahmeti from Kosova, Amina Hodžić from Bosnia and Herzegovina, Olta Shehu from Albania, and Gent Salihi from North Macedonia, I participated in the Sarajevo Film Festival (SFF) Human Rights Day programme this year.

 

The Human Rights Day programme has been implemented for three years now, and I’ve heard nothing but the best from the YEAs who have participated in previous years. This year’s programme was organised by the Institut za razvoj mladih KULT and the YEA team, and it mainly took place at the Europe House in Sarajevo. The Institut za razvoj mladih KULT had their own participants, who were a diverse group representing the voices of youth from various places in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Occasionally, we had some activities together with the group from the ‘Dealing With The Past programme’, which had participants from all over Europe.

 

Our agenda was full, and I had a wonderful time in Sarajevo. We had the opportunity to talk about statelessness with the UNHCR, and we talked to Almin Zrno about his exhibition Pleonexia II – Stolen Future, which we had previously explored at the Europe House. Together with the group from the ‘Dealing With The Past’ programme, we remembered the history of Sarajevo during our memory walk with Nicolas Moll, and we visited the History Museum of Bosnia and Herzegovina as well. We had a lecture about the cost of democracy and its impact on the natural environment and how sometimes people get together to protect those things. We had a UNW panel in which we got to hear more about feminism, femicide, and freedom in the region.

We watched the film Milk, and we talked to Stefanie Kolk about the film, the milk, and her career-changing paths. A local film called The Sky Above Zenica discussed the cost of democracy and human lives, and it made a great impression on me. I’m very thankful I got to talk to the activist from that film and to learn more from the whole process. An animated film called GAIA was inspired by Sarajevo, and we got to talk to Nermin Hamzagić and Enis Ćišić about the creative and animation process of the film. From WB6, we moved on to Lebanon and Greece, thanks to the films Diaries from Lebanon and Avant-drag! I got to learn so much about other cultures, history, etc. During the conversations with Myriam El Hajj and Fil Ieropoulos, we found out more about the creative thought and the process of filming that went into these two films, considering that one is about the political situation in Lebanon and the other is about being a drag queen/king in Greece.

 

Our YEA Olta Shehu was a moderator of a panel called “Human Rights in Times of Uncertainty”, and the panellists were: Samir Lemeš (Professor at the Polytechnic Faculty, University of Zenica, and one of the activists from the film The Sky Above Zenica), Dino Abrazović (Professor at the Faculty of Political Science, Sarajevo), and Damir Šagolj (the Pulitzer Prize winner), and we got to learn so much and talk about very important topics.

 

I have so many good memories from this trip, and it was truly my honour to represent the YEA network in Sarajevo. After being a part of the SFF Human Rights Day programme, I now strongly believe that art can change how we look at things and how we portray human rights in our everyday life.

EIB marks five years of successful operation in Bosnia and Herzegovina

Written by WeBalkans on . Posted in News.

 
  • The EIB local office has helped BiH access the financial and technical support available under the Team Europe initiative.
  • By working closely with the EU Delegation, the EIB has been able to sign over €900 million in financing for new sustainable projects since 2019, supporting connectivity, climate action and the country’s EU accession.
  The European Investment Bank (EIB) is celebrating five years of successful operation in Bosnia and Herzegovina, marking a significant contribution to the country’s development and EU integration efforts. Since opening its local office in Sarajevo, the EIB has played a crucial role in facilitating access to financial and technical support under the Team Europe initiative, ensuring that Bosnia and Herzegovina benefits from the opportunities provided by the European Union.   With over €900 million allocated to new investments since 2019, the EIB has provided favourable financial conditions to projects across the country, often combined with grants from the European Union, channelled through the Western Balkans Investment Framework (WBIF). A significant portion of these funds, approximately €590 million, have been allocated to the transportation sector, as well as to support small and medium companies (€155 million) through favourable credit lines, followed by investments in the water, energy, healthcare and education sectors. In addition to financial support, the EIB has delivered substantial technical assistance. The Bank has provided around €3 million in grants from its Economic Resilience Initiative (ERI) and €10.5 million in advisory services through the WBIF. This technical support has been instrumental in the preparation and implementation of various development projects across the country.   Over the last five years, the EIB Global has worked closely with the EU Delegation in BiH and the EU institutions in Brussels to deliver financial and technical support for key projects leading to faster economic development and improved living conditions. These projects include the construction of new sections along the Corridor Vc, for which the EIB has already invested over €1 billion, complemented with over €300 million in grants. The Bank has signed over €40 million in EU investment grants under the European Union’s Water and Sanitation (WATSAN) programme, including under the Instrument for Pre-accession Assistance (IPA) and the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (SIDA). In the water sector, the Bank has provided financial assistance for the reconstruction of flood protection infrastructure and implementation of prevention measures.   “Together with our local and Team Europe partners, we have achieved tangible improvements in everyday lives and opened new development opportunities that the country has been able to attain. Thanks to our financial and technical support, people across the country are already benefiting from improved water supply and sanitation services. Earlier this year, new cutting-edge trams arrived in Sarajevo, 40 years after they were last replaced. And on the pivotal transportation route – Corridor Vc, currently under construction, road users will benefit from reduced travel time and better road safety.”, said EIB Vice-President Robert de Groot, who is responsible for the Bank’s operations in the Western Balkans.   “When the EIB representation office was launched in Sarajevo back in 2019, our goal was to strengthen partnerships on the ground and increase our advisory support for our local partners. Not without a sense of pride, I can rightfully say that the EIB teams from the Western Balkans and Luxembourg have been able to help BiH benefit from the available EU opportunities,” said EIB representative for BiH Sandrine Friscia, whose mandate expired as of September 1st. Miha Švent, who was previously an advisor with the EIB’s Public and Infrastructure Finance Advisory, will take on the position of the Bank’s representative for BiH in the coming months.   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 the 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 the Western Balkans The EIB is one of the leading international financiers in the Western Balkans. Since 2009, the Bank has financed projects in the region totalling over €11 billion. For detailed information on the EIB’s activities in the Western Balkans, please visit www.eib.org/en/publications/the-eib-in-the-western-balkans.   About EIB in BiH https://www.eib.org/en/projects/regions/enlargement/the-western-balkans/bosnia-herzegovina/index.htm

Đerdap 1 and 2 YEAs

Written by WeBalkans on . Posted in YEA Blogs.

Hello! My name is Adrijana Nikitovic and with Velimir Milosev, a YEA from Serbia, I visited the place where 20% of the total electricity in Serbia is produced. If physics is something that you are passionate about, then the number of 5.65 TWh yearly will sound impressive. But if you study political science as I do, just imagine that every fifth household is getting its electricity from there. Welcome to Đerdap 1 hydropower plant! But we were not the first ones to arrive.

 

 

In 2020, the European Union recognised the importance of the Đerdap I navigation lock as one of the key elements of the Danube River navigational infrastructure, which is part of the international Rhine-Danube corridor. The decision was made—an investment worth over 28 million euros in the modernisation of navigation locks. Ships use a navigation lock that changes the water level and allows passage through the hydroelectric plant. Thanks to the support of the EU, this navigation lock was renewed for the first time since its construction in the 1970s.

 

The modernisation of the Đerdap I hydropower plant was completed three years ago, and it is important to mention that the revitalisation was done in one year. Our host, Davor Maljoković, assistant director of the Directorate for Modernisation of Djerdap Hydro Plant, shared with us many benefits that this modernisation has brought: “The number of unplanned downtimes is reduced to the maximum extent—we have not had any unplanned downtimes in the last three years; maintenance costs are reduced because we do not have any unplanned downtimes; fewer people are needed for maintenance; and the equipment itself works in the best order. The safety of navigation has also been increased. Just because we have no unplanned stoppages, the life of the ship’s lock has been extended to a new working life of 25 years. The impact on ecology is huge because water transport is the best ecologically, and energy efficiency is increased because electricity consumption is reduced.”

 

 

And what has been done in the process of modernisation of the Đerdap 1 hydroelectric power plant lock? “Fourteen systems were completed, including a large number of subsystems. The works on modernisation can be divided into four groups. These are construction works, works on auto hydraulic drives, works on hydro mechanical equipment, and auxiliary systems. Overall, it includes 14 systems and more than 40 subsystems,” says Maljoković.

 

As we dive deeper into the world of renewable energy, the story of Đerdap 1 showcases the path towards a sustainable future. So, whether you’re a future engineer, an environmentalist, or simply someone who cares about our planet, let these innovations inspire you. By investing in water infrastructure, we can ensure a green, sustainable, and European future for our region!

Emilija Novaković

Written by WeBalkans on . Posted in YEA, YEA of the month.

YEA of the Month August 2024

My name is Emilija and I am a student at the Faculty of Philology. I am also a bookworm, activist and writer. I am volunteering at Okular, as a content creator primarily for blog ‘Nek se čuje glas’ (Let the Voice Be Heard). I am also volunteering at ‘Novosadska ženska inicijativa’ (Novi Sad Women’s Initiative). I write poetry and some of my poems were published in online love poetry collections. I am working on my own poetry book.
What drives me to continue being active in my community are the changes that I could see after a project as well as reactions of my peers, family and friends but also people in the community. As a disabled person, I am interested in human rights and education for disabled persons.