News and updates from BCSDN and the region
A new study by Expert Europe, titled “Three Decades of Civil Society: the Ups and Downs of Promoting Democracy in Romania”, explores the evolving landscape of civil society and independent media support in Romania over the past 35 years – and offers timely recommendations for Europe. As the US repositions its global democratization strategy and
Read more →North Macedonia’s civil society is bracing for a significant blow following the United States Agency for International Development’s (USAID) decision to reduce its funding substantially. For over thirty years, USAID has been a key player in supporting democratic reforms, fostering the growth of civil society, and promoting private sector development in the region. From 2025
Read more →The European Commission has adopted a revised Action Plan for the EU Strategy for the Adriatic and Ionian Region (EUSAIR), ushering in a new phase of regional cooperation and sustainable development. The updated framework builds on a decade of progress across four core pillars: Blue Sustainable Economy, Connecting the Region (Transport and Energy), Environmental Quality,
Read more →A new report by the Ukrainian Women’s Fund and The Kvinna till Kvinna Foundation sheds light on how international aid is (not) reaching Women Civil Society Organisations (WCSOs) in Ukraine, two years after Russia’s full-scale invasion. Based on survey responses and interviews with over 100 WCSOs, the study provides rare insights into funding flows and
Read more →As shrinking civic space and media capture continue to reshape the landscape for civil society, timely and targeted information has become essential for effective donor engagement. A recent feature by Pikasa.ai explores how media intelligence is being used not only to understand shifting narratives but also to inform funding decisions, anticipate backlash, and evaluate the
Read more →The Western Balkans Circular Economy Hub has officially been launched, forming part of broader EU-supported efforts to promote sustainability and regional cooperation. Coordinated by the Regional Cooperation Council (RCC), the Hub has been envisaged as a platform for knowledge exchange, policy alignment, and intersectoral collaboration among civil society, public institutions, and the private sector. Its
Read more →CIVICUS has been examining the challenges and strategies for CSOs in response to funding cuts, particularly the sudden USAID funding freeze in 2025. The impact of these cuts on CSOs’ financial stability and operations is highlighted, based on a survey conducted by CIVICUS among its members, networks, and communities. Various mitigation strategies CSOs employ include
Read more →In a new strategic overview, the National Endowment for Democracy (NED) underscores the enduring relevance of democracy support as both a moral obligation and a long-term investment in global stability, prosperity, and resilience. The report positions democracy as a system that delivers tangible benefits, including economic development, civic accountability, and peace, contrasting sharply with authoritarian
Read more →The CSO Partnership for Development Effectiveness (CPDE) has issued a detailed response to the first draft of the outcome document for the upcoming 4th International Conference on Financing for Development (FfD4). While welcoming stronger language on aid quantity and effectiveness, CPDE argues the draft remains insufficient to meet the scale of today’s global challenges. It
Read more →The Trump administration is advancing a sweeping plan to restructure U.S. foreign aid, according to a leaked internal memo obtained by Reuters. The proposal envisions dismantling much of USAID and creating a narrower, rebranded agency—the U.S. Agency for International Humanitarian Assistance—focused solely on disaster relief, global health, and food security. Key programs related to democracy
Read more →A growing number of philanthropic organisations are experimenting with artificial intelligence, yet equity remains largely absent from the dominant AI conversation. Findings from the Technology Association of Grantmakers and the UK’s Association of Charitable Foundations show interest in AI across the sector, but only a small fraction have developed policies or integrated the technology organisation-wide.
Read more →The National Endowment for Democracy (NED) has regained access to congressionally appropriated funds after restrictions since late January. The State Department’s decision to lift these limitations is a crucial step in restoring NED’s ability to support democracy worldwide. This follows a lawsuit challenging the unlawful denial of 167 million USD in obligated funds and 72
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