EESC hosted the Enlargement High-Level Forum in Brussels on October 24, where over 140 representatives from civil society, governments, and EU institutions, including BCSDN members’ representatives, as a part ECMI initiative discussed the critical role of civil society in the EU accession process. The forum emphasized a collaborative approach for a “values-driven” enlargement, aligning candidate countries with EU democratic standards. Ms. Biljana Spasovska, BCSDN’s Executive Director, spoke to a panel addressing the need for genuine EU engagement, stressing that transparency, accountability, and citizen participation are essential. She highlighted the shrinking civic space in the Western Balkans, particularly in Serbia, and urged the EU to strengthen monitoring and ensure civil society’s role in a credible accession process. The forum underscored that resilient civil society is fundamental for sustainable reforms and the EU’s path to inclusive growth and social equity across Europe. Read more here.
Source: BCSDN