The Balkans: Stability for Europe – YEA Workshop at the University of Regensburg

On July 9, Young European Ambassador (YEA) Jovana Jaćimović from Montenegro organized the workshop “The Balkans: Stability for Europe” at the University of Regensburg in Germany. Supported by the YEA Network and the Europaeum East-West Center, the initiative brought together students and YEAs to reflect on the political landscape of the Western Balkans and its path towards the European Union.

The event was designed as a hybrid discussion, allowing both in-person and online participation. Alongside Jovana, who moderated on site, three Young European Ambassadors joined as guest speakers: Kleidi Memo from Albania, Katarina Marinković from North Macedonia, and Miloš Pavković from Serbia. Together, they shared perspectives on regional challenges, opportunities, and the importance of the Balkans for Europe’s overall stability.

To encourage interaction, participants engaged with a mind map of the region and explored creative promotional materials that complemented the discussion. The workshop concluded with a digital feedback chart, giving everyone a chance to share reflections and impressions. In total, fifteen students attended, creating an intimate and engaged atmosphere for dialogue.

For Jovana, the initiative highlighted not only the value of open conversations about the Western Balkans but also the strength of regional cooperation within the YEA Network. She expressed her gratitude to Kleidi, Katarina, and Miloš for their expertise and responsiveness, as well as to the WeBalkans and Europaeum teams for their essential support in making the workshop possible.

The “Balkans: Stability for Europe” workshop demonstrated how meaningful exchanges, across countries and formats, can strengthen understanding and inspire young people to reflect on the region’s role in shaping Europe’s future.