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Author: WeBalkans

The emerging bridges built by a crowd

Written by WeBalkans on . Posted in YEA Blogs.

Author: Ema Meçaj, Young European Ambassador from Albania
When was the last time you listened to a song? Take a moment to think about it. Probably it was several minutes ago, on your way to school, office, home or maybe at a social gathering. Different studies suggest that listening to music contributes to emotional development and creativity. But for me its values and power go beyond, because at the end of the day, music has the power to connect. I am Ema Meçaj, a Young European Ambassador from Albania and this is an article for a unique festival organised at the heart of Europe.   Where and when it took place? From 25-27 April 2024, Brussels welcomed the Balkan Trafik Festival, which gathered participants from all around the world, to come and celebrate the vibrant Balkan culture. For three days, the festival provided a platform for exchange and promotion of the European Union and Balkan’s values, by forging links between the cultures.   Teamwork makes the dreamwork. Who joined the festival? Among the YEAs who participated were Arjana Rudari, Damjan Zlatanovski, Dmitriy Churin, Tarik Bico, Teodora Cekic and myself Ema Meçaj, from the Western Balkans. We were joined by Mykyta Anikieiev, Nika Tepnadze and Teodora Drucec, who are Young European Ambassadors, coming from the Eastern partnership. If I had to describe our team in three words, I would use three Cs: -Communicators -Collaborators -Change-makers   So, tell us more. What happened during three days and how were young people engaged? The atmosphere was captivating, with artists coming from the Western Balkan, Greece, Moldavia, Ukraine and beyond, to perform, celebrate multiculturalism and unite people. The YEAs represented the network and interviewed the artists, before their performances at the backstage. I would single out the conversation with Ivan Kovavecic, from Barcelona Gipsy Balkan Orchestra. Together with Teodora, we had an insightful conversation with him, but what stood out for me was this sentence: “We have integrated gypsy elements into the name of the band, because we treat music like Gypsies treat life, with no borders and no limits. We are the ones who can choose our own direction.” While listening to Ivan, I couldn’t agree more with his words. During the last day, YEAs attended a meeting between actors in economic, cultural & tourism ecosystems. Now let me state briefly, that I come from a country whose biggest aspiration has always been to become part of the united European family. Back in the 90s, after the fall of communism and the rise of democracy, people were saying out loud: “We want Albania to be like the rest of Europe!”. For Albania in this case and for all the Western Balkan countries, change has always been linked with the European values. The meeting was an opportunity to connect, reflect about the pathway of Western Balkan’s accession to the European Union and envision the European perspective of our region. As young people, we had the opportunity to express and share our thoughts with different stakeholders, not only about our aspirations, but also about the current challenges the world is facing. I left the meeting with this thought: Today’s youth who are working towards promoting the belief in the promise of Europe, will be the next generation of decision-makers who need to continue working to keep that European promise.   Why is Balkan Trafik Festival different from other festivals and how does it promote the European Union values? Now that some weeks have passed, I recall the memories of good music and people embracing the values of different cultures.  What I witnessed for three days in a row, staying in the middle of a crowd who were constantly laughing and dancing, is that music can significantly promote the messages of diversity, solidarity and social cohesion. These are the values European Union stands for and these are the values each one of us needs to embrace.
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Empowering Future Leaders: Lessons from the European Year of Skills

Written by WeBalkans on . Posted in YEA Blogs.

Author: Marija Blažević, Young European Ambassador from Montenegro
  When we think of skills, we often imagine something tangible, something we can create with our hands. However, skills are not only that; they also encompass emotional intelligence, negotiation power, proactivity, leadership, and many others. Hello everyone! My name is Marija Blažević, a 25-year-old Young European Ambassador representing Montenegro. Join me as I recount the highlights of the recent European Year of Skills conference, where discussions were robust, and ideas flowed freely.   Diving In: European Year of Skills, insights from the frontline As a Young European Ambassador from the Western Balkans, alongside YEAs from Eastern and Southern Neighbourhood programmes, Tako Davladzde and Rita El Khoury, and EU member country representatives, we gathered for the grand finale of the European Year of Skills conference. The tone of the conference was set with a call to action for active participation in skill development to fortify Europe’s future. Of course, we were excited to learn more about it!   How does the youth of the Western Balkans connect to this? One programme that stood out for me was the ERASMUS programme mentioned by the panellists. It made me realise the endless possibilities it offers for growth and connection. Youth from the Western Balkans have the opportunity to be part of it and connect with peers around the world. But it wasn’t all about programmes; it was about recognising the skills within us, nurturing them, and realising their potential to foster growth and cross-cultural understanding. Beneath the surface, the emphasis was on self-recognition and skill cultivation, essential for personal and societal advancement.   Lessons learned From lively panel discussions to intimate breakout sessions, the event was a treasure trove of insights. We delved into the pressing issues facing youth today – from the need for paid internships to the importance of reforming our education systems. One resounding message echoed through it all: skills aren’t just about certificates; they’re about empowerment, inclusion, and creating a brighter tomorrow for all. They are instruments of empowerment and vehicles for social change.   Opportunities knocking As the curtains drew to a close, we were left with a resounding call to action: it’s not just about a year of skills; it’s about a decade-long commitment to growth and development. The EU offers a wealth of opportunities for those willing to seize them, but it’s up to us to harness our potential and drive the skills revolution forward. And that is exactly what young people from the Western Balkans offer: potential and skills. We are demonstrating it through our activism and will for change. The young people of the Western Balkans show proactivity, creative IT skills, public speaking, project management, teamwork, knowledge transfer, diplomacy, entrepreneurship, media literacy, and much more, and are ready to fulfil their full potential.   Shaping the future: Our role in Europe’s story As young people, we’re not just the future; we’re the architects of it. Our voices matter, our ideas count, and our skills hold the key to unlocking a brighter, more inclusive region and Europe. So let’s roll up our sleeves, embrace the challenges ahead, and build a future where every skill is celebrated and every voice is heard. By believing in ourselves and in our peers, we can embrace the challenges ahead with determination and purpose. With knowledge, skills, and advocating for the right values, there is nothing we can’t achieve. It was great to hear from the representatives of the institutions that they believe in us and recognise where we are not acknowledged. When they said it out loud, we all felt seen and continued the conversation with them, providing ideas on how to improve the role of youth in such important topics and why it is crucial for us to be part of such events and more involved.   Towards a stronger, more inclusive Europe and brighter future for all As I reflect on this enriching experience, one thing is clear: the journey towards a stronger, more inclusive region and Europe starts with us. Let’s cherish our skills, nurture our talents, and forge ahead with passion and purpose. Together, we can transform aspirations into achievements and turn the dream of a better region into a reality. So here’s to the next decade of skills and the boundless possibilities that lie ahead. Let’s make every day a celebration of growth, every challenge an opportunity for learning, and every skill a beacon of hope for a brighter tomorrow. Until next time, stay curious, stay passionate, keep shining bright, and embrace your skills!    
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Balkan Trafik Festival – A Symphony of Cultures in Brussels

Written by WeBalkans on . Posted in Stories.

In the heart of Europe, Brussels has again played host to the vibrant Balkan Trafik Festival. This gathering is a celebration of Eastern European culture, supported by the European Union, which emphasises the importance of unity and diversity across the continent. Now in its fourth year, the festival is a melting pot of musical talents. Balkan Trafik has become a cultural meeting point where the diverse threads of Balkan arts are woven into a rich tapestry. The festival is more than a celebration; it’s a significant expression of the European Union’s dedication to cultural diversity and unity. Supported by the EU, the festival highlights the role of Balkan heritage in the European cultural mosaic. The festival was attended by Young European Ambassadors (YEAs) from the Western Balkans. This year they were also joined by YEAs from the East, namely Georgia, Moldova and Ukraine. Together they spoke with artists, reflecting questions important to audiences back home and in the EU. Their mission is not only to build bridges with the West, but also to raise awareness amongst their communities back home of what the EU values mean in practice.

“Balkan Trafik is more than a festival; it’s a bridge between the East and the heart of the European Union, celebrating the diversity and creative energy of the Balkans.”

As Europe’s political landscape evolves, Wieërs sees the festival as a key platform for integration and understanding, a celebration that enriches Brussels and spotlights the cultural dynamism of the Balkan region.   He first became aware of the Western Balkans’ situation in 2002, just after the war had ended when he dined at a small restaurant in his neighbourhood established by an Albanian Kosovar who had fled the war in his country. Through this émigré’s eyes, he learned much about what was happening in a part of Europe that previously had been hidden behind an iron wall.  This man was a sort of ambassador, Wieërs realised. “I recognised that we need to get to know our neighbours better, now that the old Cold War walls are down,” he reflected. The basic idea was to expand the knowledge of our people about what is happening beyond our borders. It’s a traffic of culture, not of something negative. 

“Music breaks down borders, in part by sharing joy. We see our audiences, and we see how they bond through music. And that is the message we musicians need to bring in a world of conflict.” 

  “And that is where our vision and that of the EU overlaps,” Wieërs added in a separate interview. “The support we receive from the EU is not just financial. It is moral. We are co-travellers.”  From 25-27 April 2024, the festival presented an array of eclectic acts. Stars like Manu Chao with their global influence resonated with the festival’s mission of multiculturalism and community.  The festival inclusively represents not only Balkan states but also nations like Ukraine and Moldova, stressing the expanding scope of the European cultural and political landscape. The inclusion of these countries underscores the festival’s role in fostering European unity through cultural exchange.  Kalush Orchestra, the Eurovision 2022 winners, showcased the youthful energy of Ukraine’s music scene. Their music—a blend of traditional Ukrainian elements with rap sounds and dynamic dance—demonstrates the festival’s innovative spirit.  The Western Balkans were represented perhaps most vividly by Zarina. Her music, inspired by collaboration and a tapestry of traditions, draws listeners into the depths of Balkan soul, with songs from Turkey, Albania, North Macedonia, Bulgaria, and beyond. Her melodies, steeped in tradition, resonate with the contemporary spirit of the festival, offering a bridge between the historic and the modern.  Joining Zarina in the line-up was the Greek ethnic-rock band Koza Mostra. Their energetic blend of genres captures the festival’s essence of innovation within tradition, turning every performance into a celebratory act of rebellion.  The Balkan tradition is already making waves in Western Europe, as evidenced by the success of bands like the Barcelona Gipsy Balkan Orchestra, the Amsterdam Klezmer Band, and the Fabijan Balkan Brass Band. All three, based in Western Europe but proudly draw on various Eastern European musical heritages.  But perhaps the most defining spirit of Balkan Trafik is seen when bands like Fabijan’s Balkan Brass Band descend from the stage to blend with the crowd. Here, music becomes a living entity, breathing the same air, sharing the same space, and embracing each audience member in a personal serenade. This isn’t just a performance; it’s an intimate exchange between artist and audience, a shared story told in the universal language of music.  This is the essence of Balkan Trafik: a festival that reaches out, invites in, and celebrates the cultural heartbeats of the Balkans with open arms and dancing steps. It’s a cultural phenomenon where the music is not just heard; it’s felt—up close and personal. 

EU commits to unlocking €750 million in funds to boost small businesses in the Western Balkans

Written by WeBalkans on . Posted in News.

The European Union (EU) is unlocking €750 million to help small and medium businesses in the Western Balkans. This money is to make it easier for small and medium-sized companies to get loans and grow, even when facing a difficult economic environment.


Thanks to the €60 million guarantee businesses can borrow money at better conditions, which will help them grow, create jobs, and boost the economy in this region. Since 2013, the EU has supported over 67,000 companies and around 900,000 jobs in the Western Balkans through the European Investment Fund. In total, since 2006, the EU channelled €600 million through financial institutions, which led to €6 billion loans at better conditions for businesses.
Recently, the European Investment Fund made deals with 11 banks throughout the Western Balkans. These deals will let businesses get over €750 million in loans..


The plan is to give around €750 million in loans to about 13,000 small businesses, which could support around 180,000 jobs. This initiative is a big step and may lead to 20 more guarantees under the Western Balkans Guarantee Facility. This shows that such efforts can bring in private investment and help the EU’s plan for economic growth and investment.


EIF Chief Executive Marjut Falkstedt from the European Investment Fund said these funds would help build strong local economies and help them play a bigger part in the world market.
Commissioner for Neighbourhood and Enlargement Olivér Várhelyi added that these loans will have good terms, like lower interest rates and less need for collateral. This is important because many businesses need loans now, but it’s hard to get them. They hope this money will lead to over €750 million in loans.


Background

The European Investment Fund (EIF) is an integral part of the European Investment Bank Group, dedicated to supporting Europe’s micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises by facilitating their access to finance. The EIF is instrumental in promoting EU objectives related to innovation, research, and development, entrepreneurship, growth, and employment.


The Western Balkans Investment Framework (WBIF) serves as a cooperation platform that enhances investment harmonization and socioeconomic development in the Western Balkans. It integrates EU and bilateral donor grants with financing from international financial institutions, playing a key role in the execution of the EU’s €30 billion Economic and Investment Plan for the region.

The Western Balkans have to make it circular

Written by WeBalkans on . Posted in YEA Blogs.

Author: Lazar Simić, a Young European Ambassador from Serbia
How often did you think you were making one big endless circle? For example, school/faculty – job – free time and then again and again? If that seems familiar to you, then you know what circularity is, but have you heard of the circular economy and its main principles?
My name is Lazar, and I am a Young European Ambassador from Serbia. I will do my best to share the most important insights from the World Circular Economy Forum 2024 and not get too bureaucratic as if the event took place in Brussels (it did!).
Wait, can you tell me more about what circular economy is first?
When we say economy, we usually mean linear economy. We take materials from nature, make some products, use them, and then throw them away as waste.
In the circular economy, due to our awareness that there is no planet B, we stop producing something that would end up as waste. Thus, we change the whole process.
Circularity means changing how we produce, consume, use and waste. Three “r” are to be learnt by heart: reduce, reuse and, of course, recycle.
And this gets better – the circular economy tackles climate change and biodiversity loss together while addressing many social needs, like new jobs.
Can bugs and larvae save us from garbage?
Marija Burgieva, YEA from North Macedonia, and I had an opportunity to listen to the world’s leading circularity thinkers, doers and leaders from Europe, Africa, and Asia, showcasing the most impactful green circular solutions.
Insect-based solutions like larvae eating styrofoam in Serbia, black soldier fly reducing organic waste in South Africa or using elegant grasshoppers as a natural insecticide in Lesotho, were to be heard at the event hosted by UNDP Serbia.
Sharing is caring, they say, and we could hear that this project based in Serbia is spreading to other WB6 partners – Montenegro, Bosnia and Herzegovina and Albania. Marija was eager to make it even wider and include North Macedonia, which is why YEAs should be sent to all important events.
The magic wand and key discussions
European Union is all in it regarding the circular economy, but where is our region on that path? Right there, and we have got the proofs!
Marija and I, together with our counterparts from Eastern and Southern Neighbourhood programs, Oleksandra Verheles and Abdallah Emad, had an opportunity to have a conversation with Mr. Mathieu Bousquet, Director of DG NEAR A, about the circularity in the Western Balkans: what has been achieved and what can we expect soon for the further regional green development.
I even had a chance to be a bit sincere and silly and to answer Mr. Bousquet’s question about what I would do if I had a magic wand – of course, get the whole region to the EU immediately!
Deeds did come after a lot of speeches
On the Forum’s last day, two circularity roadmaps were signed, one for North Macedonia and the other for Albania. This meaningful ceremony showed the EU’s dedication to further developing the partnership with WB6 on such a crucial topic.
Empowering the Western Balkans to become more green and circular means making this part of the Balkans resilient and ready to go hand in hand with new economic and environmental trends needed to ensure a safe and healthy future.
Switching to the circular economy model is a task for everyone: you, me, all citizens, companies, politicians and everybody has to cooperate to succeed. Shall we try?
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LePetit.app: Heartfelt stories and speech therapy for children in Bosnia and Herzegovina

Written by WeBalkans on . Posted in Stories.

Where stories speak to hearts, cultivating a love for learning in every child. In Bosnia and Herzegovina, there’s a new project funded by the European Union, called LePetit.app.  And it’s capturing the hearts of children. It all started with a parent who wanted better educational content in their mother tongue. LePetit.app brings together educators and families with exceptional audio stories. With 20 hours of stories and fairy tales for kids, narrated by actors from the region, LePetit.app is more than an app. It’s a labour of love, designed and built by over 50 professionals, including writers, artists, and educators, to respond to the needs of parents and children. “LePetit.app came from a real need. As a parent of two young children, I quickly realised there’s very little quality educational content available for children in the languages of Bosnia and Herzegovina. Our little ones end up watching programmes from the rest of the world via YouTube, which isn’t great for their speech and learning their mother tongue.”  Adnan Koro, leader of the “Guardians of Tradition” Association The stories on LePetit.app tackle issues that will help children deal with strong emotions, facing challenges and experiencing things like loss or gaining a new family member.  Created by Susan Perrow, a globally renowned Australian author, having these stories available in this region is a dream come true.  

“I was thrilled to learn that my stories will be heard in this region, especially by children in Bosnia and Herzegovina!” 

About this project The “Speech Development through Modern Technologies”project was implemented through Regional Programme on Local Democracy in the Western Balkans 2 (ReLOaD2), which is funded by the European Union (EU) and implemented by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) with a support of Municipality of Novo Sarajevo. Seeing how children can benefit from this project, Sarajevo Canton’s Ministry of Education has approved the use of this programme in local kindergartens, under the management of the Sarajevo Children’s Public Institution in Novo Sarajevo. Funded by the European Union, and supported by UNDP, this project is making a significant impact on children’s education. In Sarajevo, a new version of the LePetit.app was introduced in late February, now offering a speech therapy programme with over a hundred exercises for children with speech issues. It helps parents, caregivers, and teachers identify and treat speech disorders in children. 

“Through my work with children, I have noticed a rise in the number of children facing speech difficulties in recent years, along with various other challenges, due to excessive use of IT devices, especially in preschool age. I believe that the Speech Therapy programme, which has enriched the digital kingdom of LePetit.app stories, is an excellent tool for children to complete homework assigned by speech therapists at home.” Lidija Sejdinović, narrator and educator

LePetit.app is loved by both children and their parents because it helps them have better conversations while keeping their family traditions alive. In a world where entertainment often takes over, LePetit.app stands out as a positive source of ideas and a wonderful example of how technology can bring us closer to our families and the wisdom we share. Plus, it addresses a common concern among parents about kids spending too much time on screens. Instead of just watching, children get to use their imagination and picture the stories as they listen. This active participation not only entertains them but also helps them develop their emotions and language skills. Everyone involved can be proud of LePetit.app—it’s both educational and fun, helping children grow while enjoying themselves.  Supported by the European Union implemented by the UNDP in Bosnia and Herzegovina, the “Speech Development through Modern Technologies” project has also received backing from the Novo Sarajevo Municipality. Seeing how children can benefit from this project, Sarajevo Canton’s Ministry of Education has approved the use of this programme in local kindergartens, under the management of the Sarajevo Children’s Public Institution in Novo Sarajevo. 

Mayors in the Western Balkans and Türkiye honoured for championing Roma communities

Written by WeBalkans on . Posted in News.

The European Commission announced the winners of the ‘Most Roma Friendly Mayor’ awards on 9 April. These mayors have been chosen for their work in supporting Roma communities and promoting equal rights and dignity for all. This award is part of a commitment to changing how people think about including Roma people in society.   

 

The ‘Most Roma Friendly Mayor’ award celebrates the achievements of those local administrations who are genuinely proud of empowering Roma communities and meeting their needs actively.  Valentina Superti, the Director for the Western Balkans at the European Commission’s DG Neighbourhood and Enlargement, presented the awards.  

 

Olivér Várhelyi, Commissioner for Neighbourhood and Enlargement, emphasised the award ceremony’s role in encouraging better relationships between local governments and Roma communities.  “Tonight’s award ceremony celebrates the outstanding efforts by these mayors to break down walls between local administrations and Roma communities, sending a clear message to politicians, civil society, and experts that change is possible,” he said. 

 

Commissioner Várhelyi shared that EU funding for Roma integration has increased by 50% between 2014 and 2023, now more than EUR 130 million.  

 

The European Union is home to between 10-12 million Roma, roughly 1 million of whom in the Western Balkans and 2.8 million in Türkiye. These awards demonstrate the EU’s commitment to the inclusion of Roma and recognise the positive impact Roma communities can have.  

 

The “Most Roma Friendly Mayor” award is part of a larger project supported by the European Union and managed by Roma Active Albania. This project works in several countries and aims to get Roma communities more involved in conversations with authorities. A panel chose the winning mayors from each country, and they received their awards in Brussels. 

 

Background 

 

The primary purpose of Romani Week is to consolidate the European Parliament’s and other institutions’ commitment to fighting against antigypsyism and formulate this commitment into action. The award ceremony is the peak of the campaign in Brussels and aims to create strong synergies with the actions that took place across the Western Balkans and Türkiye, as well as the EU Member States at the local and national levels. 

 

The “Most Roma Friendly Mayor” award is organised as part of the regional project of the Instrument for Pre-Accession Assistance ‘Romani Women Power of Change in the Western Balkans and Türkiye. Roma Active Albania coordinates the project with financial assistance from the European Union, and it supports the network of Roma civil society organisations in the enlargement region.  

 

The Power of Change project is implemented in Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Serbia and Türkiye. It is part of a regional campaign aiming to mobilise Roma communities and strengthen their ability to engage in dialogue with public authorities. The local advocacy took place in all the Western Balkans region and Türkiye, and the independent selection panel was chosen among the nominated mayors, with only one winner per country – The Most Roma Friendly Mayor – to receive the award in Brussels. 

 

A Big Step: Bosnia and Herzegovina Starts Joining the EU

Written by WeBalkans on . Posted in Stories.

A sign for BiH for better things and togetherness for the people.

Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH) has got the green light to start joining the European Union. This news has made people across the country feel very hopeful about the future. It’s not just a change in world politics; it’s a sign of better things and togetherness for the people living there.

 

Businesses Getting Ready for Changes

Milijan Mirković, a well-known person from the Employers’ Association in Brčko District, shares what the business people think. “The EU is giving us good news. We are ready to get better and follow EU rules,” he says. “It’s like getting ready for a big football match. We have to work hard.” This shows that businesses are excited but also know they have a lot to do. Being part of the EU will make trading easier and help BiH businesses be more successful.

Schools and Universities Want to Grow

Teachers and students are also excited. Professor Srđan Lalić, head of the Economics Faculty in Brčko, talks about the big advantages. “This is a great chance for us to improve how we work,” he says. “We want to make our courses better and work well with local and international jobs.” He’s proud that they are working with top universities in the EU.

 

Hopes for a Better Future Together

The thoughts of Mirković and Lalić are just small examples of the excitement in BiH. Young people, especially, see how joining the EU could change things for the better. Arijel Kurtagić from Bihać is looking forward to travelling more easily and finding work in the EU. “The future seems nearer,” he says, excited about what could happen.

 

In smaller places like Lukavac, Ademir Ćosićkić sees how joining the EU can help not just big cities but also small towns grow, like in tourism.

 

Anastasija Katić from Gradiška thinks this is a chance to start projects that can make big changes, like reducing poverty.

 

In Mostar, Amila Memić hopes that joining the EU will mean better protection for everyone.

 

Ajla Kuluglić from Tuzla is excited for more projects and better ways of living. “Living better isn’t just a hope, it’s a real plan,” she says, ready for the good changes that joining the EU will bring.

 

Many people in BiH are dreaming about joining the EU. They include business leaders wanting successful markets, teachers hoping for better education, and young people like Arijel, Ademir, Anastasija, Amila, and Ajla, who are waiting for easier travel and better chances.

 

With the happy celebrations in Sarajevo, it’s clear that joining the EU is a big deal for BiH. It will add to Europe’s rich mix with its special culture and big hopes.

EU commits record €6 billion to Western Balkans for growth

Written by WeBalkans on . Posted in News.

Good news for the Western Balkans: on the 4th of April 2024, the Parliament and the member states reached a political agreement to give €6 billion to help Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo, Montenegro, North Macedonia, and Serbia. This money is for them to get ready to join the European family.

 

The money, which includes highly concessional  loans and grants, will help make their economies strong and change things for the better. With this support, the Western Balkans can move faster towards becoming part of Europe.

 

Ursula von der Leyen, who leads the European Commission, shared: “It’s not only about money. We are creating a path for the Western Balkans to join us more quickly.”

 

The funds will be spent on making services and infrastructure like roads, energy, and the internet better. This will make people’s lives better in the Western Balkans and help the region meet European standards.

 

The EU says it will give this money if the Western Balkans do their part. They need to improve how their governments work and how they handle money. Working together for a better future is key.

 

This support is part of the Growth Plan, which the EU made last year to prepare the Western Balkans for joining the EU. The plan aims to help people and companies there and to speed up the joining process.

 

Now, the plan just needs a final okay from two important institutions – the European Parliament and the Council. Once they say yes, the plan can start.