What's New

News and updates from BCSDN and the region

CfA: Cohesion Policy Training for Journalism Students and Young Journalists in Europe (Deadline: 8 July)

Target group: Aspiring Journalists in Europe Countries: EU Member States, Neighbouring, and Accession Countries. Short Description: The Commission launches the application period for the 8th edition of Youth4Regions, targeting aspiring journalists. Successful applicants will undergo a week-long training in Brussels, including sessions, mentorship, press room work, and visits to EU institutions. Applications are open in

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CfA: Trag’s Foundation 3rd Call – Young Researchers Program (Deadline: 10 July)

Target group: Young researchers and academic citizens up to 30 years from Serbia Countries: Serbia Short Description: The Trag Foundation’s “Polet Movement” program invites young researchers to participate in a nine-month educational and research initiative, designed to foster involvement in decision-making processes and public advocacy. In partnership with the Centre for Social Policy and KoRSE,

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CfA: Human Rights Advocates Program (HRAP) (Deadline: 12 July)

Target group: Human rights activists worldwide, working at the grassroots level with NGOs. Countries: Applicants from all regions of the world, except high-income countries unless they represent marginalized communities. Short Description: The HRAP is designed to strengthen the skills, knowledge, and networks of human rights activists. It focuses on various issues including sexual and gender-based

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CfA: ReSPA Third Western Balkans Public Administration Awards (Deadline: 15 July)

Target group: Public sector institutions in Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, North Macedonia, Montenegro, Serbia, and Kosovo. Countries: Western Balkans Short Description: The Public Administration Awards in the Western Balkans, organized by ReSPA and SIGMA, seeks to recognize initiatives improving public service delivery and governance. These awards highlight projects fostering good governance, citizen engagement, and innovation

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North Macedonia: Right-Wing Resurgence Could Obstruct Country’s Democracy

North Macedonia’s recent parliamentary and presidential elections ushered in a return of the right-wing VMRO-DPMNE party, signaling a potential shift away from EU integration efforts. VMRO-DPMNE, known for its nationalist stance and attacks on civil society during past governance, secured victories in the last elections. The party capitalized on public frustration over slow EU negotiations,

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IRI Poll: Western Balkans Support EU Membership Despite Doubts

A recent IRI poll reveals that while a majority in Western Balkan countries would vote for EU membership, significant portions doubt the EU’s sincerity in offering it. In North Macedonia and Bosnia and Herzegovina, 68% would vote for EU accession, 79% in Montenegro, 89% in Kosovo, and 92% in Albania. Serbia stands out as more

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North Macedonia: Path to EU Accession Path Faced with Multiple Hurdles

North Macedonia’s EU accession process faces significant hurdles, including unresolved bilateral disputes, political instability, and waning public support. Despite these challenges, the country remains driven by the prospects of economic prosperity and regional stability. Declining public support reflects frustrations with slow progress and perceived EU ambivalence. Compounding these issues are broader regional crises and the

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Serbia: A Call to End the Attacks on Journalists

Recent attacks on journalists in Serbia, highlighted by the assault on Vuk Cvijic, a journalist for Radar magazine, have sparked condemnation from media organizations and international bodies. European Federation of Journalists president linked the attack to a hostile environment fostered by senior Serbian officials. Cvijic was attacked by Milan Ladjevic, owner of the pro-government tabloid

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Serbia: Electoral Results Reveal No Democracy Before 2027

The recent Serbian elections, marked by repeated wins for the ruling coalition, have raised concerns over democracy and electoral fairness. Despite some opposition victories, allegations of rigging and uneven conditions persist. The turnout was low, partly due to opposition boycotts and ongoing protests losing momentum. President Vučić’s dominance faces challenges, with declining support in Belgrade.

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CIVICUS Digital Democracy Initiative: Enabling and Amplifying Action for Civic Space and Inclusive Democracy

CIVICUS is actively involved in the Digital Democracy Initiative (DDI), aiming to strengthen civil society and democracy in the digital era through two main streams: empowering local civil society in the Global South to utilize digital tools for inclusive democracy and defending civil society by advocating for rights-focused policies and improved security measures. CIVICUS and

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North Macedonia: Konekt’s Fifth Philanthropic Circle Raises One Million MKD for Influential Initiatives

Konekt’s annual philanthropic circle showcased collective empowerment and generosity, raising one million MKD through individual and corporate donations. The funds will support three selected organizations: Action Zdruzenska, Enheleus Lihnida, and the Women’s Rights Initiative from Shuto Orizari. These initiatives aim to empower women, foster youth creativity, and combat domestic violence. Konekt’s team, expressed gratitude for

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