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Author: WeBalkans

New investment of €1.2 billion to boost Western Balkans development

Written by WeBalkans on . Posted in News.

The European Commission has announced the sixth investment package of €1.2 billion under the EU Economic and Investment Plan for the Western Balkans. Eight flagship projects in water supply, sanitation and wastewater treatment, rail transport, including the green transformation of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), will be supported under this initiative to drive implementation.   Key projects   This investment package is primarily funded by the EU, with contributions from EU Member States, Norway, and international financial institutions. The projects consist of:  
  • Water and sanitation: Improvements in Montenegro and Bosnia & Herzegovina;
  • Sustainable transport: Investments in rail infrastructure on Corridor X, especially upgrading a high-speed connection from Belgrade to Velika Plana for both passenger and cargo traffic;
  • Business innovation: Physical premises to assist in innovation and environmental transformation for SMEs within the region.
  EU support and endorsement   President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, said: ”Our €30 billion Investment Plan for the Western Balkans is delivering, with this new €1.2 billion package. It strengthens regional connections with quality infrastructure and brings us closer together, which is our ultimate goal. Our Western Balkan partners are building their European future.”   Commissioner for Neighbourhood and Enlargement, Olivér Várhelyi, said: “The EU’s Economic and Investment Plan for the Western Balkans is being rolled out swiftly, with the shared ambition to bring the region closer to the EU, as the new investment package adopted today demonstrates. The Western Balkans Investment Framework has made a real difference over the last 15 years, including helping the region connecting their road, rail, energy and digital infrastructures, weather the energy crisis and the COVID-19 pandemic.”   Besides the €300 million in EU grants from the Instrument for Pre-accession Assistance (IPA III), which makes up a part of this package, it will also include additional contributions by EU Member States and Norway, as well as loans coming from international financing institutions together with those provided directly by all Western Balkan economies. The package was approved by the Operational Board of Western Balkans Investment Framework (WBIF) meeting on July 1-2nd.   Economic and Investment Plan Priorities   The new flagship investments fall under three main priorities of the Economic and Investment Plan:  
  • Environment and climate: Focused on the reconstruction of water supply infrastructure in Montenegro, as well as waste-water collection plants and the construction/rehabilitation of regional landfills in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
  • Sustainable transport: Advancing Corridor X railway infrastructure, particularly the Belgrade – Velika Plana high-speed line in order to facilitate passenger and freight flows through the region.
  • Facility for businesses: Introducing a new facility to promote innovation and green transformation in businesses throughout the region.
The strategic investment is in line with the wider objectives of the EU to promote regional integration, economic development, and sustainable growth throughout the Western Balkans.   Background   As part of the Global Gateway, the EU’s Economic and Investment Plan for the Western Balkans (2021-27) aims to spur long-term recovery, accelerate a green and digital transition, and foster regional cooperation and convergence with the EU. Adopted by the European Commission in October 2020, the Plan mobilises up to €30 billion in investments, including €9 billion in EU grants through IPA III, over the seven-year period. Of this amount, €5 billion has been committed through the WBIF. So far, the EU has approved programmes set to mobilise up to €17.5 billion in investments under the Economic and Investment Plan, including €5.4 billion in EU grants.   The WBIF is a joint financial platform launched 15 years ago, bringing together the European Commission, financial organisations, EU Member States and Norway, to enhance cooperation in public and private sector investments. It supports the region’s socio-economic development and contributes to the European integration of the Western Balkans. Alongside being the main financial vehicle for implementing the EU’s Economic and Investment Plan, the WBIF will also play an important role in the implementation of the new €6 billion Reform and Growth Facility for the Western Balkans, which has the double objective to boost socio-economic convergence with the EU and accelerate the accession process. The WBIF will channel €3 billion of grants and loans under the Facility to support priority investments in transport, energy, digital and human capital areas.   For More Information Factsheet: Summary of approved projects Factsheet: EIP WBIF brochure    

Maglaj Spirit Weekend brings arts, culture and youth together

Written by WeBalkans on . Posted in YEA Blogs.

YEA Adi Softić from Bosnia and Herzegovina is the winner with the project Maglaj Spirit Weekend, which is a festival that celebrates cultural revitalization and youth collaboration, featuring Young European Ambassadors (YEA) from the WB6 countries and youth from across Bosnia and Herzegovina. The program in 2024 addresses current challenges and interconnectedness through art by screening several regional and local coproduction movies, followed by insightful discussions and presentation uf uprising musicians and their work.

 

The Maglaj Spirit Weekend project, stands out as a beacon of hope for cultural revival and brining young people of all backgrounds together. This event serves as a platform for discussions on heritage preservation and celebrates urban culture within the ancient walls of the Maglaj fortress.

 

The festival partners with both local communites Maglaj, Doboj, Žepče and their youth activists as well as regional organizations, attracting over 1500 youths from across the region. This collaboration fosters trust and cohesion while embracing contemporary music and film trends.

 

Maglaj Spirit Weekend exemplifies the power of collaboration and youth-driven initiatives, empowering voices and shaping a brighter future through the mediums of film and music. It is a testament to the potential of young people to drive cultural and social change, emphasizing the importance of art and dialogue in building a more connected and cohesive society.

 

Little Eco-Artists: Painting Our Future a new project by Aida Fejzullahu and Desantila Muriqi

Written by WeBalkans on . Posted in YEA Blogs.

Aida Fejzullahu and Desantila Muriqi are winners of the project, “Little Eco-Artists: Painting Our Future.”

 

To mark both International Children’s Day and World Environment Day, these Young European Ambassadors want to combine the themes these two days celebrate and create an educational and creative experience for young children across the Balkans. Their primary goal is to raise environmental awareness among young children and show them they have the power to make a difference. By gifting them painting materials, we hope to inspire ongoing creative expression and advocacy for a sustainable future. Through this project, around 120 children will be engaged from various kindergartens in an immersive learning and artistic activity centred on the environment.

 

The project activities include Educational Sessions such as an hour-long interactive discussion on environmental topics, followed by an Artistic Expression activity, where children will be given canvases and colours to paint their vision of how they want their cities to look in the future.

 

Moreover, the project envisages that one Young European Ambassador in each of the WB6 will organise this event in their respective cities, minimising travel and logistical challenges.

 

After the events, all the canvases will be brought to Prishtina for a permanent exhibition/mosaic at a kindergarten or institution. This exhibition will be a lasting reminder of the children’s creativity and vision for a better future.

”Bridges Across Borders: Voices of YEAs” project for open discussions on EU values

Written by WeBalkans on . Posted in YEA Blogs.

Martin Nikolovski from North Macedonia is the winner of the project ‘Bridges Across Borders: Voices of YEAs’.

 

Since high school, he has always believed young people should be a voice, not an echo. Becoming a Young European Ambassador in 2022 for him meant continuing his efforts to be an active young person and lending a hand to other ambitious youth around him.

 

His project aims to use the digital tools to create video interviews showcasing the excellent young people they have in the network and beyond, within the Western Balkans. He always believed that they are not only in the Western Balkans, but also in Southeast Europe. Therefore, by covering the values of human dignity, freedom, democracy and rule of law, he is confident that the interviews in video form will lead to greater participation of young people and facilitate much-needed open discussions on important areas of life.

 

His project includes a Series of 6 Video Interviews entitled “Bridges Across Borders: Voices of YEAs”.

 

His primary goal is to raise the awareness of the importance of bringing youth voices into the decision-making processes. This can be only done through substantial involvement of the young people in the region in the processes where decision that will impact their lives the most are made.

 

Montenegro achieves key milestone in EU accession process

Written by WeBalkans on . Posted in News.

26 June 2024 – Today, the sixteenth Accession Conference at the ministerial level was held in Brussels, marking a significant step in Montenegro’s EU accession journey. Led by Ms. Hadja Lahbib, representing the Belgian Presidency of the Council of the EU, and Commissioner Olivér Várhelyi, the EU delegation reviewed Montenegro’s progress in Chapters 23 (Judiciary and Fundamental Rights) and 24 (Justice, Freedom, and Security). Montenegro, led by Prime Minister Milojko Spajić, was acknowledged for meeting the interim benchmarks, paving the way for the provisional closure of chapters in the accession negotiations. Minister Lahbib emphasized the importance of establishing a strong track record of implementation to ensure Montenegro’s continued success on the EU path. This step is an example of the EU enlargement process in the Western Balkans being active and impactful. With 33 chapters opened and 3 provisionally closed, monitoring of Montenegro’s alignment with the EU acquis will continue throughout the negotiations. To learn more, click the links below:

Green ideas flourish at Youth Policy Lab

Written by WeBalkans on . Posted in News.

The Regional Cooperation Council’s (RCC) Western Balkans Youth Lab (WBYL) has initiated a new edition of its Youth Policy Lab, this time dedicated to the Green Agenda, a burning topic for young people in the Western Balkans.

 

“One way to ensure that no one is left behind in the transition towards a greener future is engaging all segments of society, especially young people,” underlined Ognjen Markovic, RCC’s WB Youth Lab Team Leader at the conference kick-off. Youth are on the front lines of climate impacts but too often marginalised in the decision-making process that so profoundly affects them. That is what the Youth Policy Lab offers – proximity to good ideas stimulate innovation, constructive criticism, and whirlwind steps to transform the region into a greener and youth-friendly place.

 

Inspired by European Youth Dialogue, this Youth Policy Lab brought together young citizens and policymakers to promote youth inclusion in decision-making. This initiative is a landmark in regional youth collaboration and a commitment to the global fight against climate change and environmental protection. By making the Green Agenda a priority, these young leaders are offering their contribution to the creation of a more resilient and sustainable Western Balkans in accordance with the objective of the European Green Deal, which aims to make Europe climate neutral by 2050.

 

“The well-being of young people is a cornerstone of EU policymaking. Through initiatives like the Youth Policy Labs, we are bringing these practices to the Western Balkans, creating an environment where youth voices and ideas can flourish. By prioritising environmental concerns, in this EU-funded project young people are aligning with broader European goals, fostering a sustainable future for all,” said Gianluca Vannini, Head of Section for Social Development, Civil Society and Cross-Border Cooperation at the EU Delegation to Bosnia and Herzegovina.

 


“Let us stand united in breaking barriers and creating a world that thrives on sustainability and inclusion. Never underestimate the power you have. It’s up to us, young people to engage and look for a change we want to see in the region”, said Anastasija Đorđa Bosančić, Young European Ambassador, Human Rights Advocate and Environmentalist.

Ideas from youth and policymakers are used as building blocks to co-create regional recommendations around the themes Green Agenda Advocacy, Preventing Plastic Pollution and Circular Economy in a 3-day conference. Working groups from each Western Balkan economy will be advised by these recommendations throughout a year-long process to develop realistic solutions.

 

Western Balkans Youth Lab Project is a project funded by the EU and implemented by RCC, empowering youth to shape sustainable policies in the region.

The European Union Supports the Vibrant Cultural Heritage of the Western Balkans

Written by WeBalkans on . Posted in Stories.

The European Union is committed to preserving and promoting the vibrant and unique cultural heritage of the Western Balkans. Through thousands of EU-funded projects, the region’s rich cultural landscape is being revitalised, fostering unity and collaboration across borders

 

Cultural Cooperation in the Western Balkans (CC4WB)

 

To enhance cultural collaboration and development in the Western Balkans, the EU has launched the Culture and creativity for the Western Balkans (CC4WB) programme. This EU-funded initiative, implemented by UNESCO in collaboration with the British Council and the Italian Agency for Development Cooperation, supports public authorities, cultural and creative organisations, businesses, civil society, and individual professionals with a budget of €8 million​​.

Bridging Cultures and Communities

Mirjana, a young filmmaker from Sarajevo, participated in a CC4WB cross-regional film project, collaborating with artists from Serbia, North Macedonia, and Montenegro. Her film, exploring themes of youth and aspiration, resonated across the Balkans, showing how culture can connect people and foster a shared sense of hope and new beginnings​​.

Amplifying Local Voices

CC4WB amplifies local voices, showcasing the unique cultural assets of the Western Balkans to a broader European audience. The “Voices of the Balkans” music festival united traditional and contemporary musicians, drawing thousands of visitors and boosting local tourism while celebrating the region’s diverse musical heritage​​.

Fostering Economic and Social Development

CC4WB also contributes to the economic and social development of the region. By investing in creative industries, the programme generates employment, stimulates local economies, and attracts international investment. It empowers underrepresented groups through workshops, training sessions, and mentorship programmes for young artists, women, and minorities​​.

Sustainable Cultural Impact

Sustainability is a key part of CC4WB. Projects like the “Heritage Trails” initiative promote cultural tourism while involving local communities in preserving and interpreting their cultural heritage. These efforts ensure that the cultural treasures of the Western Balkans are safeguarded for future generations​​.

Creative Europe: A Broader Vision for Cultural Unity

Transitioning from regional cooperation to a broader European context, the Creative Europe programme plays a pivotal role in uniting cultural and creative sectors across the continent. With a budget of €2.4 billion for 2021-2027, Creative Europe supports the cultural and creative sectors, including audiovisual, across Europe, which include the Western Balkans. This programme fosters unity through cross-border cooperation and can support cultural revitalisation through a wide array of artistic and cultural collaborations​​.

Fostering Connections through Culture

Creative Europe has been a catalyst for change, empowering individuals and fostering connections across the region. Ana, a young Macedonian filmmaker, used Creative Europe funding to document the oral histories of her region, collaborating with artists and historians from Serbia, Albania, and Kosovo. This project focused on shared heritage that transcends modern borders​​ and produced a series of documentaries, audio recordings, and a digital archive focused on shared heritage that transcends modern borders.

Emir, a Bosnian musician, blends traditional Balkan instruments with modern jazz influences. Through a Creative Europe-funded project, “Balkan Jazz Fusion,” his band performed across Europe, connecting with new audiences and other musicians, showcasing the power of cultural exchange​​.

Empowering Women in the Arts

Creative Europe also empowers women in the arts. Lina, a young painter from Montenegro, showcased her work in galleries across Italy and France through a Creative Europe-supported visual arts project. This exposure brought new perspectives to her work, challenging and refining her artistic expression​​.

The Road Ahead

Both CC4WB and Creative Europe continue to adapt to the evolving cultural and political landscapes of the Western Balkans. These programmes are important parts of the EU’s commitment to the region’s cultural prosperity and unity. They illustrate the transformative power of cultural diplomacy and cooperation in regions marked by historical divides​​​​.

The European Union supports the vibrant and unique cultural heritage of the Western Balkans through thousands of EU-funded projects that foster collaboration across borders and enrich the region’s cultural landscape. These programmes celebrate the region’s rich cultural diversity while promoting a shared heritage and mutual respect. As they continue to evolve, the stories of individuals like Mirjana, Ana, Emir, and Lina highlight the profound impact of cultural cooperation in building a more cohesive, vibrant, and unified European future.

Discover how the Culture and creativity for the Western Balkans (CC4WB) and Creative Europe programmes are making a profound impact on lives and communities. Follow and find out more via WeBalkans social media and webpage.

Mirdita: Unveiling Albania’s Hidden Gem

Written by WeBalkans on . Posted in Stories.

In Northern Albania lies Mirdita, a region of natural and historic beauty that remains largely unexplored. This article explores how Mirdita is embracing its potential for tourism through a theatrical presentation at the Tourism and Travel Show in Tirana, supported by the EU4Culture grants programme via the Albanian Centre for Education, Tourism, and Entrepreneurship (CEAPAL).

Known for its picturesque views and delicious traditional dishes, Mirdita is being reimagined not just as a geographic area, but as a cultural concept. The CEAPAL initiative “Mirdita towards sustainable tourism development” involved the entire community — local leaders, historians, artisans, and citizens — to create new cultural heritage routes.

“This project has a special kind of magic. We didn’t just plan routes; we brought the community closer together. Every meeting and discussion highlighted our shared heritage. Mirdita is not just a place; it’s a living, breathing tapestry of stories waiting to be shared with the world,” said Amalinda Bediava, CEAPAL’s programme manager.

Albert Mëlyshi, the mayor, emphasised the project’s broader impact. “This isn’t merely about tourism. It’s about revitalisation and igniting hope in our youth that there’s a flourishing future here. Our partnership with the EU-funded EU4Culture project has been the catalyst for this new chapter in Mirdita’s story,” he noted.

The Tourism and Travel Show highlighted Mirdita’s rich culture. Local dancers in traditional attire performed vibrantly, capturing the essence of Mirdita. Through various workshops, business training, and cultural promotion activities, the EU4Culture-supported projects are helping to reshape the town’s narrative, with local artisans, tour guides, and cultural heritage experts playing pivotal roles.

The Crafts Fair, held in November 2023, symbolised an aspirational vision coming to life. The EU-funded “EU4Culture” project in Albania also supported the development of the “Cultural Routes of Mirdita”.

The Cultural Route of Mirdita, centred on the Monastery Church of Rubik, offers a journey through tradition. Located atop the Fan River Valley, it’s only an hour and fifteen-minute drive from Tirana. It provides an immersive experience into the past, complete with artistic frescoes and layers of religious history.

The route continues to the Church of Orosh, a sanctuary surrounded by green hills showcasing rich architecture and landscapes. The EU4Culture project ensures this site is attractive and engaging, with restored and promoted churches welcoming both religious visitors and history enthusiasts.

The path then leads to Rrëshen, the cultural hotspot of Mirdita, where tourists can visit the House of Culture and enjoy a traditional lunch at the Arber Winery, a local family establishment. The tour ends at the Church of Ndërfanës, perched on the edge of Gziq village, overlooking the region. This site marks a symbol of success and the conclusion of the journey through Mirdita. Such rich experiences make culture-driven tourism appealing to visitors and beneficial to the local economy, ensuring sustainability and respect for centuries-old pastoral traditions.

As Mirdita embarks on its path to becoming a cherished destination, the support from EU4Culture and the dedication of its community herald a new era of opportunity, not just for tourism, but for the cultural and economic revival of the region. Through the eyes of its people, Mirdita is not only unveiling its landscapes and traditions to the world but also extending a warm welcome to all who wish to discover its beauty.

About the project:

In November 2019, Albania experienced its most devastating earthquake in 50 years, with a magnitude of 6.3 on the Richter scale, causing extensive damage across 11 municipalities. The EU4Culture project, funded by the European Union (EU) and implemented by the United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS) in close partnership with the Ministry of Culture of Albania, focuses on the renovation and revitalisation of major cultural heritage sites damaged by the earthquake. It represents one of the largest cultural heritage programmes funded by the European Union, with a total budget of €40 million. Guided by the “Building Back Better” principle, EU4Culture aims to enhance Albania’s tourism potential, directly contributing to local and regional socio-economic recovery. The project also supports local entrepreneurship, artisanship, and cultural initiatives through grants, providing a direct boost to the local economy.

The Path to a Stronger Europe: Why EU Membership for the Western Balkans Matters

Written by WeBalkans on . Posted in YEA Blogs.

At the heart of the European Commission’s vision is a belief that EU enlargement is vital. Extending full EU membership to the Western Balkans is in the Union’s best political, security, and economic interests.   The Urgency of EU Integration for the Western Balkans Russia’s ongoing war against Ukraine has starkly highlighted the necessity for a robust, united Europe. The conflict has had profound effects on our Western Balkan partners, straining their economies and societies and jeopardizing their stability. Now more than ever, it is crucial to accelerate their EU accession process through meaningful reforms. Public sentiment in the Western Balkans reflects this urgency, with a majority of citizens viewing EU membership positively. The New Growth Plan for the Western Balkans In response, the EU has introduced a new Growth Plan for the Western Balkans. This initiative aims to bolster EU support and foster deeper engagement with local communities. By investing in these nations, the EU aims to boost GDP growth and enhance industrial competencies. As a Young European Ambassador with a focus on Technology and EU integration, and someone deeply involved in the tech sector, I found this topic particularly fascinating. It highlights the potential for Montenegro and the Western Balkans to develop our industries and address the brain drain that challenges our countries. This potential for growth and innovation is not just promising but crucial for our region’s future. Addressing Skill Gaps and Industry Needs One significant challenge facing the Western Balkans is a shortage of skilled labour and advanced industries, particularly in technology, agriculture, and other sectors. To address these deficiencies, the EU is not only providing funding but also offering educational and specialisation programmes. Students and postdoctoral specialists from the region will have the opportunity to study and work with leading EU companies, gaining invaluable experience. Progress in Montenegro: A Case Study Montenegro exemplifies the strides being made. Funding for scientific research has increased tenfold, demonstrating the country’s commitment to advancement. The opening of the European Innovation Council (EIC) office in Montenegro’s capital underscores the dedication of both the EU and the Montenegrin government to further cooperation and progress.   Join Us in Building a United Future These efforts are more than just policy—they are an investment in a stable, prosperous future for all of Europe. By volunteering, you can be part of this transformative journey, supporting the Western Balkans on their path to EU membership and contributing to a stronger, more united Europe.
 

Empowering Young Voices: Highlights from European Youth Week in Brussels

Written by WeBalkans on . Posted in YEA Blogs.

European Youth Week serves as a vital platform for young people across Europe to come together, share experiences, and shape the future of the continent. Among the vibrant attendees were the Young European Ambassadors (YEAs), a diverse group representing the voices of youth from different backgrounds and regions. Let’s delve into their enriching experiences at European Youth Week in Brussels.   Diverse Experiences and Insights: The Young European Ambassadors brought a rich tapestry of experiences to European Youth Week. Throughout the event, they actively engaged in various sessions, workshops, and panels, exchanging ideas and insights on a wide range of topics. Amidst the buzz of discussions and networking, there were moments of genuine connection and inspiration. Whether sharing personal stories or discussing pressing issues facing youth today, the YEAs left an indelible mark on the event, showcasing the vibrancy and dynamism of Europe’s young generation.   Amplifying Youth Perspectives: At the heart of European Youth Week was the imperative to amplify youth perspectives in shaping the future of Europe. The Young European Ambassadors rose to the occasion, lending their voices to critical discussions on EU enlargement and other pertinent topics. Several YEAs had the honor of serving as speakers and panelists, offering valuable insights and fresh perspectives on the challenges and opportunities facing the continent. Their contributions underscored the importance of involving young people in decision-making processes at all levels. By actively participating in discussions on EU enlargement, the YEAs demonstrated their commitment to building a more inclusive and cohesive Europe for future generations. Lessons Learned and Takeaways: For the Young European Ambassadors, European Youth Week was not just a gathering—it was a transformative experience. They walked away with valuable lessons learned, new skills acquired, and meaningful connections forged. Beyond the confines of the event, they carry with them a renewed sense of purpose and determination to effect positive change in their communities and beyond. European Youth Week served as a catalyst for personal and professional growth, empowering the YEAs to become active agents of change in their respective spheres. As they reflect on their experiences, they are poised to continue their journey as ambassadors of youth empowerment and solidarity across Europe.   Conclusion: European Youth Week in Brussels was a testament to the power of youth engagement and collaboration in shaping the future of Europe. Through their active participation and impassioned advocacy, the Young European Ambassadors showcased the immense potential of young people to drive positive change and foster greater unity across the continent. As we look ahead, let us continue to amplify youth voices, nurture talent, and create opportunities for meaningful participation in decision-making processes. Together, we can build a Europe that is inclusive, resilient, and responsive to the needs and aspirations of its diverse youth population. To learn more about the Young European Ambassadors program and how you can get involved, visit @webalkans. Join us in spreading awareness and championing the voices of youth across Europe. Together, we can create a brighter future for generations to come.