News and updates from BCSDN and the region
In response to growing concerns about foreign interference in the EU elections, the EU is ramping up its efforts to safeguard the integrity and democratic processes of its member states. Vera Jourova, the Vice President of the European Commission emphasizes the importance of protecting the electoral processes from external interference, through disinformation campaigns and cyberattacks.
Read more →EU has introduced a digital strategy to promoting innovation and facilitating the digital transformation across the Union. The strategy highlights the importance of digital technologies in driving economic growth and ensuring Europe’s competitiveness on the global stage. The Commission’s approach focuses on three key pillars: enhancing the digital infrastructure, fostering digital skills and inclusivity, and
Read more →The Fundamental Rights Report 2023 by the European Union Agency for Fundamental Rights (FRA) sheds light on crucial human rights concerns within the EU in 2022. The report’s focus section addresses the implications of Russia’s aggression in Ukraine, emphasizing the need for support and solidarity from governments, local authorities, and society. It emphasizes the necessity
Read more →In a captivating podcast, BCSDN delves into the complex landscape of foreign agent registration laws in the Western Balkans. The podcast unravels the intricacies of these acts and sheds light on their implications for regional dynamics. By exploring the historical context, motivations, and enforcement mechanisms of the laws, the podcast provides a deeper understanding of
Read more →ECNL’s publication “Where AI and Climate Action Meet” explores the intersection of artificial intelligence (AI) and climate action, showcasing the potential of technology in addressing environmental challenges. The report delves into how AI applications can contribute to sustainable development, mitigation, and adaptation efforts. It highlights real-world examples where AI is being leveraged to optimize energy
Read more →EU has taken a significant step forward in its commitment to combat violence against women by adopting a decision on its accession to the Istanbul Convention. By joining the Istanbul Convention, the EU affirms its commitment to preventing violence, protecting victims, and prosecuting perpetrators. The decision underscores the EU’s recognition of violence against women as
Read more →The recently concluded 2023 UN Financing for Development Forum shed light on the crucial role of CSOs in the development and implementation of Infrastructure Financing Frameworks (INFFs). It highlighted that CSOs bring valuable expertise, diverse perspectives, and on-the-ground knowledge that can enhance the effectiveness, transparency, and accountability of infrastructure financing. The article stresses the importance
Read more →Efforts to strengthen ethics and transparency within the EU have gained momentum, as highlighted in recent publications. The focus is on addressing ethical challenges and enhancing accountability mechanisms across EU institutions. Proposed reforms aim to set clear ethical standards, improve conflict of interest rules, and expand financial disclosures to promote transparency. The objective is to
Read more →The European Commission has announced the postponement of the proposed law targeting foreign interference in the European Union (EU). The article “NoEUfara: Commission Postpones Foreign Interference Law” by ECNL, sheds light on this decision and its potential implications. The postponement is a response to concerns raised by CSOs and other stakeholders regarding the potential impact
Read more →A recent online Regional Accountability Community of Practice (RACoP) event, hosted by BCSDN EO brought to the forefront the transformative power of NGO partnerships and community-led development in catalyzing meaningful change. This gathering showcased the vital role of CSOs and local communities in driving sustainable development initiatives. Through engaging community members in participatory processes, the
Read more →Funding civil society actors in partner countries remains marginal despite recognition of the importance of localising support and international commitments to strengthening partner-country civil society actors’ ownership. Only 7% of OECD Development Assistance Committee (DAC) members’ CSOs funding goes directly to partner-country CSOs. This OECD toolkit offers providers guidance for funding civil society actors in
Read more →The European Commission has revealed a new Taxonomy Regulation proposal aimed at accelerating the green transition. The proposal seeks to establish a comprehensive framework that sets criteria for determining environmentally sustainable economic activities. By providing a classification system, the regulation aims to guide investors, companies, and policymakers in making informed decisions and combatting greenwashing. The
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