News and updates from BCSDN and the region
A recent study by the Center for Civil Communications reveals that, on average, only 0.1% of the budget of the Macedonian municipalities is allocated to support citizen associations and foundations. The research highlights that over 90% of funds allocated through budget item 463, intended for non-governmental organizations, primarily went to sports clubs closely associated with
Read more →The Government of North Macedonia adopted the Transparency Strategy for 2023-2026, proposed by the Cabinet of the Deputy Prime Minister responsible for good governance policies. The priority areas outlined in the strategy, are: enhancing active transparency, improving access to public information, fiscal transparency of the government and other executive authorities, enhancing digital capabilities for data
Read more →BIRN explores the potential repercussions of a draft bill in Bosnia’s Republika Srpska entity aimed at regulating CSOs receiving foreign funding. Critics argue that the bill, reminiscent of similar legislation in Russia, raises concerns about authoritarianism and could significantly impact CSOs working to safeguard democracy, media freedom, and human rights in Republika Srpska. The draft,
Read more →The regional report on judicial response to femicide in the Western Balkans, published by the AIRE Center is a condensed version of national research conducted in the Western Balkans from 2018 to 2021. Initiated by Women’s rights organizations, the research focused on understanding femicide characteristics, patterns, and causes. The main aim of the report is
Read more →Liberties provides a tailored approach for CSOs to protect their digital information. Emphasizing the importance of securing personal and sensitive data, the guide addresses unique threats faced by CSOs engaged in digital activism. It highlights the need for a comprehensive approach covering people, processes, and technology, offering insights into understanding cyber risks, the impact of
Read more →Albania’s Special Prosecution Against Corruption and Organized Crime (SPAK) has faced criticism from the media community for questioning journalist Elton Qyno about his sources, conducting a raid on his home and workplace, and seizing his computer. Journalists argue that they are not obligated to disclose their sources. Qyno, in an interview with local media, deemed
Read more →In 2021, the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) initiated a project to address the limitations and adverse effects of the flawed implementation of its standards, particularly Recommendation 8. The 2023 amendments to Recommendation 8 aim to rectify the misapplication and misunderstanding of R8, which had led to excessive and restrictive measures on civil society. The
Read more →BCSDN expresses concern over recent events jeopardizing freedom of expression and association in North Macedonia. In the most recent attack, a defamation lawsuit targeted the Investigative Reporting Lab (IRL), exemplifying a Strategic Lawsuit Against Public Participation (SLAPP) aiming to silence critical voices. The judge’s disconcerting statement, questioning IRL’s media status and limiting journalistic activities, sets
Read more →BiH journalist Snezana Mitrovic, from N1 television, was attacked by Mr. Milorad Dodik, the President of Republika Srpska, during a press conference. In response, the Media Freedom Rapid Response consortium condemned Dodik’s behavior, urging a public apology and an end to intimidation of media. The consortium highlighted a history of Dodik’s pressure on journalists and
Read more →The Center for Science and Innovation for Development (SCiDEV) provided input during the consultation of the Roadmap on Chapter 23 “Judiciary and fundamental rights” – a strategic document of the Government of Albania responding to the European Commission screening report for Albania – focusing on the section III.G on “Freedom of Expression, Media Freedom, and
Read more →A conference co-organized by the European Commission and the Spanish Presidency of the Council of the EU, held in November explored strategies to strengthen civil society and uphold fundamental rights, responding to civil society’s long-term demands. Discussions highlighted an institutional framework for civil dialogue, EU-wide monitoring, and streamlined funding access, yet concerns arose about a
Read more →The Liberties’ Online Civic Space Report, the first report specifically focusing on the state of the online civic space in the EU, focuses on inadequate protection of fundamental rights online. The report covers developments in 11 EU countries over the past five years, revealing issues such as online smear campaigns, doxxing, and efforts to regulate
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