On 19-20 October 2023, the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) organized the 9th Western Balkans Civil Society Forum in Thessaloniki. Discussing the impact of geopolitical shifts on the WB and the EU’s enlargement policy, obstacles faced by the region in their accession path, the role of civil society, and ways to monitor civil society progress. At the inaugural session, BCSDN Executive Director Ms. Biljana Spasovska emphasized the crucial role of civil society’s voice in the Western Balkans’ EU accession and the need for robust collaboration between the EU, governments, and CSOs. She also shed light on concerning developments in BiH, from dissent-targeting legislation to a proposed “foreign agents” law, addressing regional challenges, including shrinking civic space and media attacks. Mr. Oliver Röpke, the President of EESC, emphasized the EESC’s role in EU enlargement, welcoming members from candidate countries, especially the Western Balkans, and acknowledging their importance as democratic watchdogs crucial for successful accession negotiations. Read more here.
Source: BCSDN