On 6 October, the leaders of the European Union and its Member States, together with Western Balkans leaders, launched the “Western Balkans Agenda on Innovation, Research, Education, Culture, Youth and Sport”. The document was launched at the EU-Western Balkans Brdo Summit and is a comprehensive, long-term cooperation strategy for the European Union and the Western Balkans to promote scientific excellence as well as reform of the region’s education systems, creating further opportunities for youth, and helping prevent brain drain.

Mariya Gabriel, Commissioner for Innovation, Research, Culture, Education and Youth said: “EU cooperation with the Western Balkans offers unparalleled opportunities. The Innovation Agenda for the Western Balkans will open these opportunities to students, researchers, innovators and cultural operators so that they access new markets, become more competitive and build sustainable prosperity. It’s a positive and forward-looking vision for all.”

Through increased investment in research, education, culture, youth and sport, the Western Balkans Agenda and its proposed actions will contribute to the region’s economic and social development and cooperation. The EU will support ever stronger cooperation between stakeholders in the Western Balkans and in EU Member States to facilitate the successful implementation of the Agenda.