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Author: WeBalkans

EU Support Ignites Creative Sparks in Western Balkans’ Film and Theatre Scene

Written by WeBalkans on . Posted in Stories.

The dynamic world of film and theatre in the Western Balkans is witnessing significant growth, thanks to the robust support from the European Union. Through a combination of funding, international collaboration, and nurturing of local talent, the EU is helping to elevate the region’s cultural landscape to new heights. 

A Symphony of Support 

The EU’s Creative Europe program is a cornerstone of this cultural revival. This initiative provides essential funding to a myriad of projects, allowing artists to explore bold new ideas and bring them to fruition. Mara Prohaska from the BELDOCS Documentary Festival in Serbia enthusiastically acknowledges the programme’s impact: “Since Serbia joined the Creative Europe Media program in December 2015, we have successfully completed over 20 projects. This partnership with the EU has provided us with tremendous opportunities to develop our festival and industry activities, promoting European films and innovative content.” 

 

These words are echoed by Marija Apchevska, a director and screenwriter, who is currently developing her feature film “Spring Cleaning.” Apchevska appreciates the support received from Creative Europe Media: “This allowed us to start the process of casting, location scouting, doing some tests, and further developing the script, bringing us one step closer to successfully shooting the film.”

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Bridging Cultures and Building Bonds 

Beyond financial backing, the EU is a catalyst for cultural exchange and co-production, fostering deeper connections between Balkan nations. Aurela Kadriu of Qendra Multimedia speaks passionately about the Reconnection 2.0 platform, which has been instrumental in bridging gaps between Serbian and Albanian artists. “Our platform… managed to foster cultural exchange and co-production… We have translated books between Serbian and Albanian, promoted shows in both countries, and facilitated artistic residencies.” 

 

These residencies have allowed artists from Kosovo and Serbia to work in each other’s entities, presenting their creations to new audiences and fostering a dialogue that transcends borders. Kadriu proudly notes, “Throughout the Reconnection 2.0 programme, hundreds of artists were part of its initiatives, creating a platform for dialogue and fundamentally for reconciliation.” 

 

Nurturing New Voices 

The EU’s commitment to the creative arts also shines through in programs like LIM | Less is More, which supports emerging filmmakers. This initiative provides intensive training and development opportunities for filmmakers working on their first to third feature films. With workshops, tailored events, and networking opportunities, LIM empowers new filmmakers to push creative boundaries and innovate within their craft. 

The programme’s focus on collaboration and sustainability ensures that filmmakers are not only equipped to create compelling stories but also to do so in ways that are mindful of the ecological and political challenges of our times. This approach aligns with the EU’s broader cultural strategy, which emphasizes creativity, innovation, and cooperation. 

 

The Ripple Effect 

The EU’s investments in the film and theatre sectors are paying dividends far beyond the immediate success of individual projects. They are fostering a vibrant cultural ecosystem where creativity thrives, new talents are nurtured, and cultural understanding is deepened. These efforts are helping to transform the Western Balkans into a dynamic hub of artistic excellence, where local stories are told with authenticity and shared with the world. 

In a region where historical complexities often overshadow cultural narratives, the EU’s support for film and theatre is a powerful testament to the unifying power of art. Through these initiatives, the Western Balkans are not just finding their voice but singing a beautiful, resonant chorus that celebrates diversity, creativity, and shared human experience. 

European Commission invests €100 million for Montenegro’s highway extension

Written by WeBalkans on . Posted in News.

The European Commission has approved a €100 million grant to support the construction of the Matesevo-Andrijevica section of the Bar-Boljare Highway, part of the Economic and Investment Plan for the Western Balkans. This investment aims to improve daily life for Montenegro’s citizens by enhancing connectivity between the northern region and the capital, Podgorica, fostering socio-economic development.

Commissioner Olivér Várhelyi stated, “The EU is committed to investing in Montenegro to accelerate the country’s socio-economic development. The construction of the next section of the Bar-Boljare Highway will better integrate the Western Balkan region and unlock trade and investment potential, which is central to the EU’s Growth Plan for the Western Balkans.”

The total cost for the new section is approximately €600 million, with the initial €100 million grant from the EU’s IPA III funds marking the first phase of support. This funding ensures tangible improvements in infrastructure and services for Montenegrin citizens.


Key benefits for citizens include:

– Quicker journeys between the north and the capital.

– Modern infrastructure for safer travel.

– Easier access to regional markets for businesses.

– Better connectivity to healthcare, education, and other essential services.

The project, supported by the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), will follow competitive procurement and transparent processes, adhering to European standards to maximize benefits for citizens.

EU Election Night in Podgorica: reflecting on the road ahead

Written by WeBalkans on . Posted in YEA Blogs.

EU elections… in Montenegro?   Right when elections to the European Parliament were happening across EU member states, Young European Ambassadors from Montenegro gathered in Europe House in Podgorica for our own “EU Election Night” special event. Even though Montenegro can not participate in real EU elections before joining the EU, every election night – including ours – has to end with the announcement of some election results. So, in our case, the creative solution was to open the night with a “mock” EU election.
  A chance to think about the longer-term perspective.  
In the opening remarks, both H.E. Ms. Oana Cristina Popa, EU Ambassador to Montenegro, and Ms. Maida Gorčević, the Minister of European Affairs, shared their hopes that the Montenegrins would be eligible to run and vote in the next EU election (i.e. join the EU before 2029), as well as mentioned the importance of IBAR for Montenegro’s EU accession process. Unsurprisingly, the discussion about Montenegro’s potential participation in future EU elections continued during the cocktail reception: the idea that some YEAs could even run in 2029 as “Gen Z” candidates to the EU Parliament was among the highlights of several exciting conversations that we had throughout the evening.
  The role of YEAs in times of change   The key topic on the event’s agenda was the projected composition of the EU Parliament in 2024-2029 — and how it might affect Montenegro’s EU accession negotiations. At the discussion panel “European Election and Montenegro,” some of the fiercely debated issues were related to the potential rise of far-right parties in the EU Parliament — and subsequent risks for the enlargement process. As Mr. Augustin Palokaj, Brussels correspondent for “Jutarni list,” said in his speech about the expected outcome of the EU election, the risks related to the far-right should not be exaggerated. Mr. Palokaj emphasized that the “center” led by the EPP is projected to remain a dominating force in EU politics, whereas
far-right parties will find it hard to cooperate with each other due to internal splits and divisions on a wide range of issues. In other words, the EU institutions will remain committed to the enlargement. However, imagining the possibility of political uncertainty made it clear that the role of YEAs as communicators is vital to the European future of the Western Balkans. We have to continue interacting with a wide range of communities and institutions: not only in the Western Balkans but also on the EU level.
  Finally, the long-awaited mock election results   Everyone who joined the event — from YEAs and representatives of civil society to experts and ambassadors of EU countries — could cast their votes in a quirky star-shaped box before proceeding to the main session. An hour later, the results of our vote were announced. Greens/EFA led the race with 10 votes. Second came EPP with 8 votes. Hopefully, in five years, we will have a chance to compare these mock 2024 results with Montenegro’s real 2029 EU election results. In the meantime, YEAs will continue to put all their efforts to make this vision a reality. To stay updated, don’t forget to follow @webalkans_eu on Instagram!

First Climathon Sarajevo: A Green Revolution Begins in Bosnia and Herzegovina

Written by WeBalkans on . Posted in YEA Blogs.

Author: Ena Porca, a Young European Ambassador from BiH

We are bringing a buzz of joyful news from Sarajevo! On May 17th, Bosnia and Herzegovina officially got its first Climathon, and our Ena, who was the creative bee behind it all will share all of the exclusive details on this amazing green opportunity that marks the beginning of an innovative path towards sustainability for all BiH citizens.

 

Climathon is a global eco-competition and a movement designed to foster innovation and sustainable solutions for urban challenges, organised and defined by the local communities. This landmark event, hosted at the UN House in Sarajevo, brought together citizens, students, entrepreneurs, and activists, all united by a shared passion for innovation in environmental protection and climate change.

 

After choosing from a pool of over 40 applications, two preparatory events, talks, and sessions with mentors, 11 exceptional teams were selected to present their green ideas. The challenges focused on two critical issues:

  1. Air quality and
  2. Waste management

Each team showcased innovative solutions, demonstrating the immense potential of Bosnia and Herzegovina’s young minds in addressing environmental concerns, from all parts of the country, tackling real issues of their local communities, and meeting their needs in unique ways.

 

Spotlight on Winning Ideas

Four teams were awarded financial support to further develop their green initiatives:

  1. Rent a Style: The winning idea involved facilitating the rental of dresses through their platform, focusing on making anyone’s special day or occasion more accessible and fun, while promoting sustainable fashion.
  2. HDPE Building Blocks: A team suggested repurposing High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) materials into building blocks for various applications, demonstrating a practical approach to recycling and reuse.
  3. Digitalising thrifting (Ormarić): Our third idea involved the first platform in BiH for thrifting, which offers a quick, easy, and secure way of shopping online while promoting thrift culture and making sure you are getting high-quality products and the online shopping experience we all love.
  4. Public Orchards: The final aidea warded aimed at creating public orchards, blending traditional practices with modern technology to enhance urban green spaces. The youngest team to present showcased a strong skillset and understanding of the idea, with already developed plans for the future.

These innovative solutions not only address immediate environmental issues but also pave the way for sustainable urban development in the entirety of Bosnia and Herzegovina. Our hardworking teams will continue to buildtheir solutions and expand their network and skills with the wonderful help of our partners and friends, who were real game-changers for our event: Intesa Sanpaolo Bank, US Embassy, WeBalkans, Embassy of France, as well as a great number of small businesses who contributed to the unique charm and vibe of the event, making it a unique beehive for all of the eco-enthusiasts, and motivating all of us to see the great potential in this sphere and to strive for larger developments and innovations.

 

A Community Effort

The success of Climathon Sarajevo would not have been possible without the invaluable contributions of our expert jury and speakers. The jury, composed of specialists in urban mobility, circular economy, ESG, and sustainable development,  provided critical insights and guidance to the participating teams. Additionally, our inspiring speakers, including another amazing YEA, Layla Jusko, who told her own story of the pursuit of purpose in activism, and exploration of herself as a young person that brought her to be one of the most inspiring fighters for climate change communication, the collaboration between environmental protection nad public health, and the pursuit to further developments in research, with an emphasis on the pivotal role young people play in climate action through concrete, actionable steps. Maja Halilović, a ground-breaker in biodesign in BiH and the entire Europe, shed light on biodesign as a vision for the future and emphasised the relevance in finding new ways to fix problems and generate viable solutions in all major industries, which was a valuable insight for all individuals and businesses seeking to generate greener technologies and challenge the traditional ways of doing business. We made sure that Climathon is always going to be a mix of power-learning and inspiring, and hopefully, we managed to do just that by creating a mix of standardized TEDx style of storytelling, and the thrill of a hackathon that definitely helped boost the excitement among our competitors, and managed to share some valuable lessonsthis is con along the way.

Looking Ahead

The first Climathon Sarajevo marked the beginning of a new chapter in Bosnia and Herzegovina’s journey towards innovative practices in securing a better quality of life in our cities. However, this event is just the first step. Climathon aims to continue as a mediator between citizens, young innovators, and the government, ensuring that innovative solutions are heard and implemented for a greener future and that we continue to tell positive stories around us and promote people who are already working and contributing for a much greener BiH and the region.

I will use this opportunity and once more extend my heartfelt thanks to everyone who participated, supported, and contributed to the success of Climathon Sarajevo. We are incredibly proud of all the teams and look forward to witnessing the positive impact of their ideas. Stay connected with the Climathon community on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn, and join us in our mission to create greener, more sustainable cities and create a buzz of positive practices and stories.

 

We cannot wait for the next chapter of Climathon Sarajevo, and we invite you to join the Climathon community around the globe. Unprecedented times call for new heroes, and what if we tell you that might be exactly YOU!

 

The EU’s music initiatives in the Western Balkans: Celebrating unity in diversity

Written by WeBalkans on . Posted in Stories.

The European Union supports a range of music initiatives in the Western Balkans, enhancing cultural diversity and fostering socio-economic growth. This support brings people together, celebrates different cultures, and strengthens community bonds across the region.

Supporting diverse musical projects

The EU’s involvement in the Western Balkans covers a wide spectrum of musical projects, from orchestras and rock festivals to guitar and jazz festivals. Programmes like Creative Europe and the Instrument for Pre-accession Assistance (IPA) have provided funding and resources, enabling many of these projects to thrive and reach wider audiences​.

The Guitar Art Festival in Belgrade, Serbia, attracts guitarists worldwide and offers workshops and performances. The EXIT Festival in Novi Sad, one of Europe’s largest music festivals, has also benefited from EU support, helping it to grow and attract international talent.

Jazz festivals such as the Nišville Jazz Festival in Serbia and the Skopje Jazz Festival in North Macedonia receive significant EU funding. These festivals celebrate jazz and serve as platforms for cultural exchange and collaboration.

Bringing people together

EU-supported music festivals are more than just showcases of talent—they bring people together and create shared experiences. These events foster community spirit and offer spaces for enjoyment and cultural celebration. The Peja Jazz Festival in Kosovo is a perfect example. Started during the COVID-19 pandemic, it has grown into a major cultural event, attracting attendees from across the region​​.

The EU’s financial and logistical support ensures these festivals can continue to thrive, even during challenging times. This support allows for high-quality performances and broad audience engagement.

Boosting local economies

The EU’s investment in the music sector also brings significant economic benefits. Music festivals and cultural events attract tourists, create jobs, and stimulate local economies. The EXIT Festival, for instance, generates millions of euros in revenue each year, benefiting local businesses such as hotels, restaurants, and shops.​

In conclusion, the European Union’s support for music initiatives in the Western Balkans is multifaceted and impactful. By fostering cultural exchange, promoting economic growth, and celebrating the region’s diversity, the EU is helping to build a more vibrant, united, and prosperous Western Balkans. Music helps us celebrate Unity in Diversity, uniting different cultures to make the Western Balkans strong and vibrant.

Celebrating cultural diversity

The Western Balkans is rich in cultural diversity, and the EU’s music initiatives celebrate this diversity by promoting a wide range of musical genres and traditions. These initiatives provide platforms for all types of music, reflecting the region’s vibrant cultural mosaic.

The Balkan Composer Competition in Pristina, Kosovo, is a standout example. It brings together composers from across the region, offering opportunities for collaboration and cultural exchange. This competition not only highlights local talent but also fosters a deeper understanding and appreciation of the region’s cultural heritage.

Building a brighter future

The EU’s support for music in the Western Balkans goes beyond funding events. It’s about building a brighter future for the region. By investing in cultural initiatives, the EU creates opportunities for young people, promotes social cohesion, and fosters a sense of shared identity.

Desar Sulejmani, whose Western Balkans Youth Orchestra has benefited from a number of EU-funded projects, sums it up well: “Through these funds, we’ve managed to create important cultural events that promote understanding and collaboration among the countries of the Western Balkans.” This sentiment underscores the broader impact of these initiatives in fostering unity and mutual respect among the region’s diverse communities.

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: