Skip to main content

Author: WeBalkans

Marija Blažević

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

YEA of the Month June 2024

My name is Marija Blažević, I am 25 years old and I am finishing my master’s studies in international law. I have been involved in youth activism and volunteerism since high school. I love to travel and on every trip I learn something new. I like to learn about other cultures and to learn and take the best from everyone and everything and incorporate it in my life. Through all the activities, I met a large number of young, smart, ambitious young people who are ready to change society and their environment for the better. I participated in local, regional and international projects , including those organized by EU, Council of Europe, Erasmus+. I have been part of youth organisations, such as ELSA Montenegro, Network for youth activism, ADAMAS, AIESEC, and as part of AIESEC I was local committee president in Podgorica. On that position I worked with great people and together we inspired young people to travel, volunteer and take active participation in society. Together, through networking, we have always shown that we are a driving force and that our networking makes us stronger. My key areas as YEA are international relations and human rights. I am advocating about these topics, and always try to lead by example and show that a young person can have ideas which are heared, respected and can make a difference. I want young people to get more active, more open minded and realize how much power we have within us. Only like that we can make this region a better place for everyone. When we realise the differences are beautiful and we can all learn something from each other and be support at all times.

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.

Marija Burgieva

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

YEA of the Month May 2024

Hi! I am Marija, an international politics and diplomacy student from Skopje.

Since I was 13, I have been passionate about giving back to my community. This led me to volunteer and become an activist for human rights and civic responsibility, exploring many opportunities through youth exchanges and workshops.

Environmental protection is my main focus, driving me to find innovative local solutions. Now, I am a social entrepreneur: CEO of O-krug, turning orange peel waste into products while employing marginalized youth; CMO of Mamaorgana, addressing food waste; and co-founder of eco-habitat.com, Macedonia’s first platform for eco-friendly products.

As Helen Keller said, ‘Alone, we can do so little; together, we can do so much!’

€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.

The Growth Plan for the Western Balkans: Brighter future on path to EU Integration

Written by WeBalkans on . Posted in News.

Last week’s Growth Plan Summit in Kotor was an important moment for the Western Balkans, as its leaders came together with EU representatives to discuss the EU’s new Growth Plan for the region and the path forward towards EU integration. The summit, held under the slogan “One region, common vision” was more than just a gathering, it was a sign of a joint future of collaboration and support for a better tomorrow.

Montenegro’s Prime Minister, Milojko Spajić, opened the summit with a clear message about the commitment of the Montenegrin government to boosting regional development while receiving unwavering support from the EU. “I invite you to seize this historic opportunity presented to the Western Balkans, to perceive the Growth Plan as part of a broader vision for a better future for the region and the EU as a whole”, Spajić said.

The European Commissioner for Enlargement, Mr. Olivér Várhelyi, also stressed the three new objectives related to the already mentioned focuses on critical medicines alliance, EU digital identity wallet, and agreements on conformity assessment. “The Growth Plan is no longer a draft. It is a reality, a reality that we already have started implementing”, said Várhelyi.

At the summit, leaders took stock of priorities discussed at the previous Tirana summit, for example on integrating the Western Balkans into the Single Euro Payments Area (SEPA), which is expected to save businesses and citizens at least half a billion euros annually. Additionally, the establishment of “Green Lanes” at border crossings aims to reduce waiting times and cut export and import costs significantly. The Wi-Fi4WB project and access to European Digital Innovation Hubs will help improve digital connections throughout the region.

At the summit, three new priorities to help integrate the region into the EU’s single market were presented and discussed: the inclusion of the region in the EU’s Critical Medicines Alliance and the EU’s digital identity wallet will significantly boost the resilience of the region’s economy by ensuring easy and secure access to critical medicines and digital services. The agreements on conformity assessment will reduce costs for certifying the safety and quality of Western Balkans products on the EU market, thereby attracting investment and boosting trade.

The summit also made it clear that regional integration is linked to EU integration – closely working together based on EU rules is a stepping stone to the opportunities of the EU’s Single Market.

Learn more on EU’s Growth Plan for the Western Balkans