News and updates from BCSDN and the region
The Launch Event for the 2023 Tirana Civil Society Forum acknowledged the vital role of CSOs in bringing the region closer to the EU. The Forum is being held as part of the Annual Summit of the Berlin Process, hosted by the Government of Albania, the current holder of the Berlin Process Presidency. Seven working
Read more →The PAR Monitor report for North Macedonia 2021/2022 has been published by the European Policy Institute (EPI). The report is a compilation of findings from the Western Balkans in the six areas of PAR, which were defined by the Principles of Public Administration, known as SIGMA Principles. The PAR Monitor offers a comprehensive package of
Read more →The analysis explores the best practices from parliaments in the areas of transparency, integrity, accountability and anti-corruption, and reflects how these approaches are applicable for the European Parliament (EP). Findings confirm the need for the establishment of an independent EU ethics body, granted investigative and enforcement powers with full transparency of enquiries, decisions and/or proposals
Read more →One year after the closing event of the Conference on the Future of Europe, there was little follow-up on citizens’ recommendations. While EPC recognizes the European Commission’s new generation’ of EU Citizens’ Panels, uncertainty remains how these deliberative exercises can connect citizens to the wider EU policymaking. Despite being a novel step in upholding the
Read more →The Global Gender Gap Index presents the 17th edition of the annual benchmarking of the current state and evolution of gender parity across four key dimensions (Economic Participation and Opportunity, Educational Attainment, Health and Survival, and Political Empowerment). The analysis yields key findings on the index results in 2023, trend analysis towards parity, and contextual
Read more →In response to growing concerns about foreign interference in the EU elections, the EU is ramping up its efforts to safeguard the integrity and democratic processes of its member states. Vera Jourova, the Vice President of the European Commission emphasizes the importance of protecting the electoral processes from external interference, through disinformation campaigns and cyberattacks.
Read more →EU has introduced a digital strategy to promoting innovation and facilitating the digital transformation across the Union. The strategy highlights the importance of digital technologies in driving economic growth and ensuring Europe’s competitiveness on the global stage. The Commission’s approach focuses on three key pillars: enhancing the digital infrastructure, fostering digital skills and inclusivity, and
Read more →The Fundamental Rights Report 2023 by the European Union Agency for Fundamental Rights (FRA) sheds light on crucial human rights concerns within the EU in 2022. The report’s focus section addresses the implications of Russia’s aggression in Ukraine, emphasizing the need for support and solidarity from governments, local authorities, and society. It emphasizes the necessity
Read more →In a captivating podcast, BCSDN delves into the complex landscape of foreign agent registration laws in the Western Balkans. The podcast unravels the intricacies of these acts and sheds light on their implications for regional dynamics. By exploring the historical context, motivations, and enforcement mechanisms of the laws, the podcast provides a deeper understanding of
Read more →ECNL’s publication “Where AI and Climate Action Meet” explores the intersection of artificial intelligence (AI) and climate action, showcasing the potential of technology in addressing environmental challenges. The report delves into how AI applications can contribute to sustainable development, mitigation, and adaptation efforts. It highlights real-world examples where AI is being leveraged to optimize energy
Read more →The recent workshop hosted by BCSDN in Podgorica focused on revising the Methodology of the Monitoring Matrix (the MM toolkit). BCSDN members implementing the MM tool, collaborated to determine specific changes needed in separate sub-areas and indicators. Presentations from group members, peer-review discussions, as well as a revised version of the MM indicators were shared.
Read more →From 31 May- 1 June, EU TACSO 3 organized the Civil Society Forum for the Western Balkans and Türkiye 2023 in Podgorica to discuss the findings of the baseline assessment against the DG NEAR Guidelines for EU Support to Civil Society in the Enlargement Region 2021 – 2027 and to contribute to the future action
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