News and updates from BCSDN and the region
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
Read more →The Freedom House Nations in Transit 2023 report reveals that democratic institutions in the Western Balkans continued to stagnate in 2022. The slight improvements in Albania, Kosovo, and North Macedonia were balanced by declines in Montenegro and BiH, while Serbia’s score remained unchanged. The EU has granted BiH candidate status while Kosovo has submitted their
Read more →OECD Civic Space Scan is a qualitative analysis of the laws, policies, institutions, and practices that support civic space in OECD member and partner countries. Designed to protect fundamental freedoms and promote good practice, the scan is based on tailored, timely, and actionable recommendations, assisting the governments’ reactions to ongoing challenges and opportunities in protecting
Read more →BCSDN strongly condemns the growing trend of foreign agents registration acts (FARA) in the Balkan region, which pose a significant risk to independent CSOs. Recent developments in Republika Srpska and Bulgaria demonstrate a concerning pattern of restrictive legislation that could stifle CSOs’ ability to operate freely. These laws, framed as measures to enhance transparency and
Read more →The State of Democracy, Human Rights, and the Rule of Law 2023 Annual Report by the Secretary-General of the Council of Europe highlights the challenges facing democratic societies worldwide. The report identifies the threats to democracy, including the erosion of human rights, the rise of populism, and the weakening of democratic institutions. It also highlights
Read more →The Liberties Media Freedom Report for 2023 reveals a disturbing trend of declining media freedom worldwide. The report, which covers 200 countries, identifies government repression, censorship, and physical attacks on journalists as the primary factors contributing to the decline. The report also highlights the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on media freedom, with many governments
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