News and updates from BCSDN and the region
The document addresses key questions regarding the European Cross-Border Associations (ECBA) Directive proposed by the European Commission and the following European Parliament resolution. It aims to clarify the Directive’s implications for civil society actors and outlines its potential to enhance cross-border cooperation among non-profit associations. The document was prepared by the informal coalition on the
Read more →In a joint statement, BCSDN expresses strong support for Serbian civil society, calling for an end to government repression and standing with them in their fight to protect democratic values and fundamental rights. Recent protests, fueled by corruption, environmental issues, and claims of rigged elections, with those surrounding Rio Tinto’s mining plans being the most
Read more →In a joint letter, EU CSOs and journalists, including ARTICLE 19, Civil Society Europe, and the European Federation of Journalists, expressed concerns over the EU’s proposed Foreign Interference Directive, part of the Defense of Democracy Package. They warn that its vague and broad regulations could jeopardize media freedom, particularly for organizations and media outlets funded
Read more →Liberties, and other human rights organizations, call for a stronger use of the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights to enhance rights protection in the EU. Despite the Charter’s comprehensive framework, its effectiveness is hindered by a lack of transparency and underutilization of available tools. This, coupled with the European Commission’s slow and cautious approach, threatens
Read more →The selection of the next European Commissioner for Enlargement is critical amid ongoing European crises. The role requires a commitment to EU democratic values, strong support for enlargement, consensus-building skills, and stakeholder trust. Ursula von der Leyen has pledged to appoint a dedicated Commissioner for this portfolio in her next term, emphasizing that enlargement, particularly
Read more →The article reflects on the decline of EU foreign policy over the years, pointing out various key moments that contributed to its weakening. It suggests that EU foreign policy has struggled to maintain unity and effectiveness, particularly after events like the Eurozone crisis, Brexit, and conflicts on its borders. The EU’s failure to address energy
Read more →BCSDN member Civic Initiatives has released a report addressing Strategic Lawsuits Against Public Participation (SLAPPs) in Serbia and their effect on freedom of expression. SLAPPs are tactics employed by powerful entities like politicians and private companies to intimidate and silence critics through prolonged and costly legal battles. The report reviews Serbia’s legal framework, examines the
Read more →The 2024 Civil Society and Think Tank Forum, marking the Berlin Process’s 10th anniversary, will take place in Berlin from October 9-11. Organized by the Southeast Europe Association and the Aspen Institute Germany, the forum will gather over 115 organizations from the Western Balkans and the EU to discuss policy recommendations and shape the future
Read more →The 2024 KoneKtor – Philanthropy East Forum, formerly the Grantmakers East Forum, will take place in Prague from September 23-25. Titled “Dialogue, Democracy, and Diversity,” this year’s event, hosted by Porticus, aims to tackle pressing issues of polarization, fractured communities, and distrust. As democracy and civil society face ongoing threats, the forum will explore the
Read more →The geopolitical urgency to complete the EU enlargement is undeniable and will persist, presenting significant challenges and implications for both the EU and aspiring member states. As the EU enters a new legislative term, it must address these challenges by exploring necessary reforms and developing a realistic plan for expanding to 30+ members. This report
Read more →In response to recent events in Serbia, including the arrests and detentions of environmental activists and a coordinated campaign against CSOs by government representatives and allied media, Civic Initiatives has released a detailed analysis. This analysis explores the repressive mechanisms increasingly employed in Serbia and highlights how protests against lithium mining represent broader demands for
Read more →In an interview with Objavi.ba, BCSDN Head of Policy and Advocacy Anja Bosilkova-Antovska discussed the rising issue of SLAPPs (Strategic Lawsuits Against Public Participation), as highlighted in BCSDN’s first regional research on the topic. Bosnia and Herzegovina, Serbia, and North Macedonia rank among the top ten European countries for the frequency of SLAPP cases. Anja
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