Skip to main content

Author: WeBalkans

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.
 

YEAurope Day: Celebrating and Reflecting on Unity and Progress

Written by WeBalkans on . Posted in YEA Blogs.

Author: Desantila Muriqi, a Young European Ambassador from Kosovo
Hello everyone! I’m Desantila, a Young European Ambassador from Kosovo. Welcome to my blog on Europe Day, marked annually on 9th May. This day commemorates the Schuman Declaration, which laid the foundation for the European Union. But why does this day matter to the youth of the Western Balkans, particularly the Young European Ambassadors whose region is part of Europe but not yet part of the EU? To find out, I asked my peers, “What do you celebrate on Europe Day?” Here’s what some YEAs said:
  • – Jursi from Albania: ‘togetherness’
  • – Džulisa from Bosnia and Herzegovina: ‘peace’
  • – Aida from Kosovo: ‘solidarity’
  • – Marija from Montenegro: ‘dialogue’
  • – Ana from North Macedonia: ‘democracy’
  • – Velimir from Serbia: ‘inclusion’
  • – Dragana from Bosnia and Herzegovina: ‘cooperation’
  • – Fatbardh from Kosovo: ‘diversity’
  Together, their perspectives paint a picture of the characteristics we celebrate on Europe Day. Additionally, on this day, we celebrate the numerous achievements of the EU, and according to Jursi, that’s not all! We, as youth from the Western Balkans, also celebrate the Union’s being, the opportunities it provides for us and our region, as well as our region’s commitment for EU integration and commitment to democratic values. As Dragana from Serbia put it, “Although we are not part of the EU, we are part of the European family, and Europe is our home.” This led me to my next question: Is Europe Day solely about celebration? YEAs’ insights, highlighted by Aida’s reflections on Europe’s progress, reveal that this day is also about advocating for improvements within the EU. Džulisa emphasised the importance of striving for peace, freedom, and democratic values, especially during these challenging times. These answers showed me that for us, Europe Day is more than a celebration—it’s a time to reflect, envision progress, address challenges, and commit to meaningful changes.   Europe Day Celebrations Across the Western Balkans From Albania to Serbia, YEAs and citizens engaged in various activities—reflecting, discussing, brainstorming, and celebrating—a blend of unity in diversity. Here’s a virtual tour of the Western Balkans’ Europe Day celebrations: Albania: Events in Shkodra, Gjirokastra, and Tirana stood out. Fairs allowed attendees to explore diverse projects and engage with EU representatives, including our YEA network. Panel discussions on women’s empowerment and civic engagement added depth. Jursi moderated the EU-Fair-on-Air sessions, building bridges and aligning with our mission. Bosnia and Herzegovina: Džulisa immersed herself in Bosnian culture through a VR exhibition. Youth events included EU pub quizzes, workshops, concerts, exhibitions, movie screenings, and the promotion of EU-funded projects. Kosovo: This year’s Europe Day was special because, from January 2024, Kosovo’s citizens can explore the EU due to visa liberalisation. The highlight was the Explore Europe Fair in Prishtina, where citizens met representatives from various embassies, projects, and institutions. YEAs supported by sharing insights into various EU countries. The fair featured artistic performances by local groups. Activities also took place in North Mitrovica and Prizren. Aida volunteered at a children’s exhibition and joined the Chopin Piano Fest. I facilitated an activity where children painted their favourite flags, discussing their dreams of visiting EU countries. Montenegro: YEAs engaged in events, including the EU Day festivities in Podgorica and a flowerbed bazaar organised by Europe House. They participated in the Festival of Lights. Marija highlighted Montenegro’s progress in aligning with European standards and raising awareness on critical issues like gender equality, EU integration, activism, and education. North Macedonia: Events ranged from cultural festivals to seminars and exhibitions. Ana participated in these events, raising awareness of European values and stimulating discussions about the EU’s impact. The highlight was the Europe Day reception, where YEAs facilitated networking and volunteering. Serbia: Europe Week 2024 revolved around the theme ‘Europe is Our Home.’ Velimir and Dragana highlighted Serbia’s cultural and historical heritage and the importance of dialogue and cooperation. Festivities in Belgrade included musical performances, receptions, and networking.   Vision for Future Europe Days As the next 9th May approaches, I’m thrilled to share the YEAs’ vision for future Europe Days:
  • – Dragana: Hopes for peace in the region and continued European unity.
  • – Jursi: Adds justice and inclusivity to the hopes for peace.
  • – Aida: Envisions significant advancements in climate action and sustainability, with the EU leading in green technologies and policies. She also hopes for a cohesive, inclusive Europe and successful digital innovation and social justice efforts.
  • – Ana: Sees a Europe where diversity is celebrated, democracy is strengthened, and prosperity is shared equitably.
  • – Velimir: Emphasises the importance of the Western Balkans joining the EU, a sentiment shared by all YEAs.
  • – Marija: Highlights mutual benefits of EU integration, noting the Balkans have much to offer.
  • – Dragana: Stresses the benefits of EU membership, such as enhanced freedoms and tackling systemic issues like bribery and corruption, paving the way for democracy and the rule of law.
  • – Džulisa: Envisions the Western Balkans actively contributing to the EU’s growth and diversity, addressing brain drain with balanced exchange of people.
  Conclusion In conclusion, amidst global challenges, our shared vision for a vibrant Europe drives us forward. Together, we YEAs hope for peace, unity, and solidarity, paving the way for a brighter future. In Velimir’s words, “We are Europe. We belong in European political structures and want our representation in Brussels and Strasbourg.” Inspired by this message, let’s continue striving for progress, ensuring that next year we have even more to be proud of. Together, let’s work towards completing the EU puzzle, integrating all its parts, and celebrating a united Europe that reflects all its citizens.
[sp_wpcarousel id=”1365280″]

The benefits of the EU’s Growth Plan for the Western Balkans

Written by WeBalkans on . Posted in Stories.

In the margins of Europe Day celebrations, the WeBalkans team had the chance to meet with David Hudson, Senior Expert on Western Balkans Policy & Regional Strategy in DG NEAR at the European Commission. His work is to promote economic integration within the region, and he told us about the benefits of the EU’s Growth Plan for the Western Balkans. Continue reading to learn more about it!

 

What is the EU’s Growth Plan for the Western Balkans?

It is about making life better for citizens in the Western Balkans by creating opportunities for business and by expanding and accelerating the economic growth of the region. That is one of the key objectives of the Growth Plan, because there is a need for more economic growth, to create more jobs, bring investment in, and increase attractivity to businesses in the region.

But the Growth Plan has also a political objective: we want to speed up the accession process and the Growth Plan will contribute to that in two ways: firstly, because an increase economic growth means an increase in the resources available to governments to invest in the accession process. The second reason relates to the way the Growth Plan is constructed: it is based indeed on implementing and aligning with EU legislation, and in advancing in the work toward accession.

How will this plan make life better for ordinary people in the Western Balkans?

It will make life better because it will boost economic growth, which will improve people’s lives, since it will create new jobs and new opportunities but also ensure that the goods circulating within the region are of a better quality, safer and more affordable. In short, it will give more opportunities, both in the region and in the European Union, for citizens of the Western Balkans and their families.

Can you give examples of specific projects that will be started under this plan?

Let’s take one very current example that governments are working very hard on: the Single Euro Payment Area, or ‘SEPA’ as it is often called. In simple terms, it is an area in which there are very low fees for transferring Euros. But currently, if you are a worker from the Western Balkans working in Germany for example, there is a high cost in transferring money back to your family. The rates for doing that are very expensive while a similar transfer inside the European Union is very cheap. Becoming a member of the Single Euro Payment Area, as it is foreseen by the Growth Plan, could save households in the Western Balkans up to 500 million euros a year, based on the current transfers from family members abroad to back home.

How will the Growth Plan help create new jobs in the Western Balkans?

It will help create new jobs because it will increase the attractiveness of the region. It will notably simplify the possibility for exports to the European Union, both of finished goods and of what we call intermediate goods, which are goods that are produced in the region as part of a supply chain that then goes to European companies, like car parts or electronic components. Furthermore, it will enable the standards for the quality of goods to be recognized more easily in the future, which will also make the exports easier. In addition, it will help reduce the border queues for goods, which can currently be up to 16-18 hours long. By shortening the time spent at border queues, good will also become cheaper to export. All of this will make the region more attractive for potential investors. And more investment means more jobs and better paid jobs in higher value sectors. That will benefit the Western Balkan economy, its families, and citizens.

More information on the European Union’s Growth Plan for the Western Balkans can be found here.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

What opportunities will young people have thanks to the Growth Plan?

The Growth Plan will have a wide range of benefits for young people. One of the things that we want to do is extend existing agreements from a couple of years ago: the mobility agreements, the recognition of professional qualifications, and the recognition of academic qualifications. As I explained, with a bigger regional market, people will be able to find job opportunities matching their skills and expectations within the region. It will boost young people and stop the necessity of moving out elsewhere. And at the same time, we want to ensure that in the short term it will be possible for those who wish to get experience, to work outside the region, in the EU, but in a way which is advantageous to them.

Young people from the region will also be able to take advantage of concrete measures which should start soon, such as the Wi-Fi for the Western Balkans. This has been already done within the European Union: we funded Wi-Fi in municipalities across EU Member States. We want to do this for the Western Balkans as well. So, up to 500 municipalities will receive Wi-Fi in areas where they have not had it before, as of the end of this year or by the first half of 2025. This again will make the region more attractive, including also for tourists.

Besides short-term outcomes, what are the long-term benefits that people in the Western Balkans can expect from the Growth Plan?

Ultimately, it will speed up the path to EU accession. On the one hand, it is important to understand that the Growth Plan, by integrating the Western Balkans into the single market, will bring some of the economic benefits of accession to the region, before the date of accession itself. On the other hand, we are giving an incentive to take on board EU standards and to implement EU laws in advance of membership through the Growth Plan. Having adopted and implemented those laws will speed up the accession negotiations because the Western Balkan partners will be able to demonstrate that they are ready to join the European Union in those areas.

Last but not the least, how does the Growth Plan address environmental concerns and sustainability in the Western Balkans?

Environmental concerns are obviously very important and are therefore included in the Growth Plan’s logic. We already have a Green Agenda for the Western Balkans that the governments have agreed to. It is a blueprint looking at long-term sustainability and decarbonisation. We have now integrated the elements of the Green Agenda in the architecture of the Growth Plan, more specifically into what we call the Reform Agendas. They are agreements between the entities of the Western Balkans and the European Union, according to which the European Union will distribute funds once certain reforms are carried out: it is a wholly new way of managing our assistance. And there is an important focus on green reforms in these Reform Agendas, more specifically on decarbonisation and moving away from fossil fuels, so it will be a key incentive to do reforms addressing environmental issues and fostering sustainability.

Young European Ambassadors from Western Balkans Win WeBalkans Call for Proposals

Written by WeBalkans on . Posted in News.

We are thrilled to announce that four Young European Ambassadors (YEAs) from the Western Balkans region have successfully won the call for proposals from the WeBalkans project funded by the European Union opened during May 2024. This achievement highlights their exceptional ideas and dedication to supporting cultural initiatives, protecting the environment, and promoting trust-building and reconciliation among youth in our region.   The winners include:
  • – Adi Softic, Bosnia and Herzegovina with Maglaj Spirit Weekend – a unique youth gathering celebrating youth culture and the arts providing a platform for young artists, filmmakers, and musicians to showcase their work and network with established artists from the region.
  • – Aida Fejzullahu and Desantila Muriqi, Kosovo with the project Little Eco-Artists: Painting Our Future aiming to foster environmental awareness and activism from an early age.
  • – Martin Nikolovski, North Macedonia with the project Bridges across borders: Voices of YEAs, aiming to address common challenges, fostering regional cooperation, strengthening youth voices and promoting European values.
  WeBalkans team was truly inspired by the high quality of all the proposals, and regret that we couldn’t fund them all. It was an exceptionally strong set of proposals, and we extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who participated. We look forward to the possibility of supporting more fantastic proposals in the future.

€76 million for Montenegro’s railway transformation

Written by WeBalkans on . Posted in News.

Montenegro is set to revitalise its railway system with a significant investment of up to €76 million from the European Union, through EIB (European Investment Bank) Global under the Team Europe initiative. This funding comes through the European Investment Bank (EIB) Global, under the Team Europe initiative. The financial package, signed on 29th May, includes a €40 million loan and €35.5 million in EU grants and technical support. This money will be used to reconstruct the 167 km-long railway line from Bar to Podgorica to Vrbnica. The project aims to make the railway more efficient, safe, and able to handle more passengers and freight, promoting greener transport. By improving this key section of the Trans-European Transport Network (TEN-T), over 1 million passengers and many international freight operations will benefit each year.   Financial Breakdown
  • €40 million EIB loan
  • €35.5 million in EU grants
  • €4.5 million contribution from the Government of Montenegro
  Project Highlights
  • Rehabilitation of 20 km of rail
  • Reconstruction of 13 steel bridges and 8 tunnels
  • Modernisation of rolling stock workshops in Podgorica, Bar, and Nikšić
  The signing ceremony in Podgorica was attended by high-level officials, including EIB Global Director for Enlargement and Neighbourhood Lionel Rapaille, Montenegro’s Finance Minister Novica Vuković, Transport and Maritime Affairs Minister Filip Radulović, and EU Ambassador Oana Cristina Popa.   EIB Vice-President Kyriacos Kakouris highlighted the importance of this project for regional integration and sustainable transport: ““The upgrade and extension of rail transport infrastructure is a priority both for the European Union and the Government of Montenegro, as it is crucial for regional integration in the Western Balkans.”   Montenegro’s Finance Minister Novica Vuković highlighted the broader economic benefits: ” Our goal, in partnership with the European Investment Bank, is to foster the development of better, more efficient and safer infrastructure. This will ultimately enhance connectivity and accelerate Montenegro’s economic growth.”   Transport Minister Filip Radulović pointed out the long-term impact on the transport system: ” Strong support from the European Union and the EIB in financing railway infrastructure improvements means that Montenegro is on track to creating a transport system that will be compatible with the European Union’s transport system and that can continue to be upgraded so that our country is able to comply with EU railway standards.”   Ambassador of the European Union to Montenegro Oana Cristina Popa underlined the broader significance of EU support: “This investment is not just about infrastructure; it’s about enhancing the quality of life for Montenegrins, fostering economic prosperity, and ensuring sustainable development.”   Background information About the EIB and EIB Global: The EIB is the long-term financing institution of the European Union, owned by its Member States. It makes long-term finance available for sound investment in order to contribute towards EU policy goals. The EIB supports projects in four priority areas: infrastructure, innovation, climate and environment, and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). EIB Global is the EIB Group’s specialised arm devoted to increasing the impact of international partnerships and development finance, and a key partner of Global Gateway. We aim to support €100 billion of investment by the end of 2027 — around one-third of the overall target of this EU initiative. Within Team Europe, EIB Global fosters strong, focused partnerships alongside fellow development finance institutions and civil society. EIB Global brings the EIB Group closer to local people, companies and institutions through our offices around the world.   About the EIB in Montenegro: The EU bank has been active in Montenegro since 1977 and has provided almost €1.1 billion worth of loans to the country, mostly in support of SMEs, education and transport infrastructure. For more information regarding the EIB’s projects in Montenegro, please refer to: https://www.eib.org/en/projects/regions/enlargement/the-western-balkans/montenegro/index.htm   About the EIB in the Western Balkans:  The EIB is one of the leading international financiers in the Western Balkans. For detailed information on the EIB’s activities in this region, visit www.eib.org/en/publications/the-eib-in-the-western-balkans.