What's New

News and updates from BCSDN and the region

Albania: SafeJournalists Concerns over Decision Made by Albanian Supreme Court Regarding Case of Journalist Elton Qyno

The SafeJournalists Network expresses concern over the Albanian Supreme Court’s decision on journalist Elton Qyno’s case, where his equipment was confiscated. Qyno challenged the seizure, arguing it violates journalistic source confidentiality. The action sets a worrisome precedent. While legal adherence is acknowledged, it should align with international principles safeguarding journalistic sources, crucial for democratic societies.

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BiH: Anti- SLAPP Law Proposed in the Federation of BiH

Environmental associations in the Federation of BiH have submitted a law to the parliamentary procedure aimed at protecting citizens, activists, and journalists from lawsuits intended to silence them. The proposed Law on Citizens’ Initiative and Protection of Citizens and Activists aims to create a legal framework safeguarding individuals involved in environmental activism. A press conference

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BCSDN Digest: CSOs Under Pressure: Navigating AML/CFT Regulations in the Western Balkans and Türkiye

The latest BCSDN Digest provides a concise overview of the complex interplay between Anti-Money Laundering (AML) and Countering the Financing of Terrorism (CFT) regulations and their impact on CSOs in the Western Balkans and Türkiye. Based on the BCSDN policy paper on AML/CFT Regulations and Implications on CSOs in the Western Balkans and Türkiye, the Digest

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SERBIA: European Parliament Urges Inquiry into December Elections

The European Parliament has adopted a resolution on Serbia, with 461 votes in favor and 52 against, calling for an investigation into the December elections. Expressing serious concern, the EP notes evidence of activities before and during the elections that may have influenced results, particularly in Belgrade. The resolution urges the European Commission to send

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BiH: A Civil Society Declaration as a Step Toward the EU Negotiations

BiH associations and foundations are urged to sign the Civil Society Declaration pushing for the start of EU membership negotiations for the country. Amid uncertain EU conditions, CSOs call for authorities to fulfill requirements. The aim is to optimize the opportunity, prioritizing high-quality reforms for accelerated EU integration. Signatories can add their organizations by February

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North Macedonia: Rule of Law in View of EU Accession

EPI’s quarterly brief on North Macedonia (October–December 2023) examines the country EU accession progress, focusing on democratic institutions, public administration reform, and Chapter 23 Judiciary and Fundamental Rights. It provides a concise overview of the period, outlining both positive strides and existing challenges. Notably, it emphasizes developments shaping country’s alignment with EU standards. A continuing

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European Civil Society Open Letter on EU Defense of Democracy Package

In an open letter, CSOs and universities voice concerns regarding the European Commission’s Defence of Democracy Package. The signatories highlight potential implications on democratic values. They are particularly concerned with the Proposal for a directive establishing harmonised requirements in the internal market on transparency of interest representation carried out on behalf of third countries. The

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Transparency International Manual on “Protection of Activists After the Recriminalization of Defamation” in BiH

The manual designed to guide journalists and activists in Bosnia and Herzegovina amid recent legislation changes recriminalizing defamation and revealing personal details. It covers legal aspects and consequences, offering instructions for prevention, rights protection, and actions during investigations. The document focuses on two main segments: prevention and handling in case of investigation. Concrete guidance is

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BiH: Discrimination and Human Rights Violations Noted by Human Rights Watch

The 34th annual Human Rights Watch World Report for 2023 highlights a global decline in human rights, citing governments engaging in selective violent actions and transactional diplomacy. In Bosnia and Herzegovina, challenges include discriminatory electoral systems, restrictions on the LGBTQ+ community, inadequate protection for victims of gender-based violence, slow progress on war crime accountability, and

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ECNL Document on Changes to Recommendation 8 and FATF Best Practices Translated into Albanian

The document discusses changes to Recommendation 8 and the best Practices Paper of the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) during 2023. It emphasizes that countries should periodically identify organizations within the non-profit sector involved in the functional definition of FATF and assess the terrorism financing risks present in the sector. Countries are advised to implement

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