News and updates from BCSDN and the region
Across the Western Balkans, the last decade has witnessed a deepening of democratic backsliding, marked by the rise of competitive authoritarian regimes and the growing use of nationalism and religion as political tools. While the formal mechanisms for EU integration remain intact, the underlying commitment to democratic reform appears increasingly compromised. Key institutions are frequently
Read more →The European Union System for an Enabling Environment for civil society (EU SEE) project has released the first batch of its Country Focus Reports, offering detailed, evidence-based insights into the conditions in which civil society operates across 86 countries in Africa, the Middle East, Asia and the Pacific, the Americas and the Caribbean. Rather than
Read more →Between April and June 2025, key developments took place in North Macedonia related to the rule of law and its EU accession process, particularly within the areas of democratic institutions, public administration reform, and Chapter 23 on Judiciary and Fundamental Rights. In April, the Council for Cooperation between the Government and Civil Society held its
Read more →The European Commission has opened a public consultation seeking input on the “retention of data by service providers for criminal proceedings”, inviting civil society organisations and individuals to share their views on how such rules may impact fundamental rights. This move comes as part of broader plans to introduce legislative and non-legislative measures at the
Read more →In an effort to improve accountability and effectiveness, foreign aid donors have increasingly turned to digital transparency portals to share detailed information on development projects. However, recent research suggests that transparency alone may not achieve the intended outcomes of greater public trust and government effectiveness. The research emphasizes that transparency efforts must be tailored to
Read more →A new study by Sarah Bush and Jennifer Hadden provides one of the most comprehensive overviews to date of the shifting landscape of international NGOs. Once heralded as central players in shaping a new global order after the Cold War, NGOs are now grappling with a wave of challenges that have curbed their growth, influence,
Read more →The European Commission has presented its proposal for the Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) 2028–2034, introducing a restructured funding model with potential implications for the EU Strategy for the Adriatic-Ionian Region (EUSAIR). While macroregional strategies are not explicitly mentioned, the new structure of €865 billion under National and Regional Partnership Plans aligns with EUSAIR priorities such
Read more →Target Group: Local governments, civil society organizations, universities, research institutes, industrial zones, and development agencies based in Türkiye or EU Member States. Aim: To promote waste minimization and resource efficiency through local, collaborative initiatives aligned with Türkiye’s national zero waste strategy. The programme supports actions that reduce greenhouse gas emissions, strengthen municipal waste systems, foster
Read more →Target Group: Independent media outlets and media organizations legally established in Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo, Montenegro, North Macedonia, or Serbia. Aim: To support independent media in the Western Balkans to promote pluralism of expression, enhance cooperation with Public Service Media (PSM), and improve audience-relevant reporting on key regional issues such as cultural exchange, education,
Read more →Target Group: Civil society organisations, research institutions, cultural and educational organisations, memorial institutions, and other stakeholders engaged in promoting democracy, rule of law, and fundamental rights in the context of historical remembrance. Aim: To support projects that explore democratic transitions from authoritarian and totalitarian regimes in Europe, promote remembrance of past suppression of fundamental rights,
Read more →Short Description: CIVICUS invites passionate, friendly, and committed individuals from all backgrounds to apply to volunteer for ICSW 2025. Volunteers will support a dynamic global gathering that celebrates and strengthens civil society. Target Group: Individuals aged 18+ who are motivated to support civil society, demonstrate strong communication skills, and are available for pre-event training and
Read more →Short Description: The Metamorphosis Foundation and Civic Literacy Initiative, in partnership with CIVICUS, invite applications for the Digital Democracy Initiative Hackathon, part of a global series under the Digital Democracy Initiative. The hackathon supports civil society innovation in civic tech, aiming to strengthen democratic participation and civic space in Eastern Europe & Central Asia. Target
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