News and updates from BCSDN and the region
Civil Society Europe, with the support of CoQuality members, implemented the survey “Quality Standards and Quality Compliance Frameworks for Civil Society Organisations” to assess the level of knowledge regarding quality management within the European third sector, its integration into the agenda of Systems of Quality Certification (SGC) entities, and the extent of implementation of SGC
Read more →Civil Society Europe, Transparency International EU, and the European Environmental Bureau are urging the Conference of Presidents to reject a proposal to establish a European Parliament inquiry committee into the European Commission’s funding of NGOs. They argue that such committees are for investigating genuine breaches of EU law, and there is no evidence of corruption
Read more →A new analysis by the European Movement in Serbia outlines the multiple initiatives driving the Western Balkans’ gradual integration into the EU Single Market. While the EU Growth Plan (2024–2027) provides a key financial and policy framework, the report stresses that regional efforts such as the Common Regional Market (CRM) and CEFTA remain vital for
Read more →The 2024 Assessment of the Capacities and Needs of CSOs in Albania, conducted by the National Resource Centre for Civil Society, offers a detailed overview of the current challenges facing the sector. The report identifies key gaps in organisational management, financial sustainability, participation in policymaking, and engagement in the EU integration process. These findings will
Read more →In an interview for CIVICUS Lens, Taulant Hoxha, Executive Director of the Kosovar Civil Society Foundation (KCSF), reflects on the critical role of civil society in Kosovo following the February 2025 elections. With Vetëvendosje! winning the most seats but falling short of a majority, Kosovo now faces a period of fragile coalition negotiations and rising
Read more →Civil Society Europe has published a policy paper titled EU Civil Dialogue: The Foundations of an Institutional Framework, calling for the establishment of a permanent and structured civil dialogue mechanism at the EU level. The paper notes that although Article 11.2 of the Treaty on European Union requires EU institutions to maintain an open, transparent,
Read more →The guide provided by the SANE network offers practical strategies for CSOs to counter shrinking civic space and rebuild public trust. Drawing on over a decade of experience, the guide provides evidence-based tools, case studies, and communication strategies to help CSOs respond to attack narratives and strengthen democratic principles. It highlights the role of narrative
Read more →A recent study by the Institute of Philosophy and Social Theory, University of Belgrade, supported by Helvetas Serbia and BCSDN member Civic Initiatives, highlights strategies for CSOs to strengthen community connections. The research emphasizes five key findings: raising awareness and identifying allies, building and measuring support through partnerships, capacity building through resources and collaboration, and
Read more →A recent study by the Institute of Philosophy and Social Theory, University of Belgrade, supported by Helvetas Serbia and Civic Initiatives, highlights strategies for CSOs to strengthen community connections. The research emphasizes five key findings: raising awareness and identifying allies, building and measuring support through partnerships, capacity building through resources and collaboration, and developing planned
Read more →Building strong communities requires open communication and shared purpose. While divisions in society often dominate the discourse, people across different backgrounds largely agree on fundamental issues like education, clean water, and quality of life. Effective communication strategies help bridge these divides by engaging diverse voices, telling compelling stories, and fostering collaboration. Rather than focusing solely
Read more →In December 2024, Hackcorruption, a global initiative by Accountability Lab, brought together diverse participants from the Balkans, including a deputy mayor and an engineering student, journalists, academics, public servants, technologists, lawyers, and more to develop tech tools aimed at combating corruption. Held in Albania, the event explored how technology can address accountability gaps and support
Read more →On February 11–12, 2025, RINGO Gathering will explore transformative strategies and innovations shaping the future of civil society. The gathering will showcase insights from RINGO innovations, action pods, and research, alongside practical ideas for Resource Flows, Accountability and Risk, Leadership and Governance, and Solidarity and Partnerships. Sessions include key themes such as equitable leadership, reimagined
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