What's New

News and updates from BCSDN and the region

Monitoring Matrix on Enabling Environment for Civil Society Development – Regional Report: Western Balkans and Turkey 2022

The regional report on enabling environment for CSO development has been published just a few days ago by BCSDN, finding that the enabling environment for civil society development in the Western Balkans and Turkey is lacking. The report analyzed the legal framework, political environment, financial sustainability, and institutional infrastructure of civil society in the region

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[Podcast] Explaining Western Balkans – You(th) in Revolt!

BCSDN`s latest podcast episode is dedicated on the regional youth cooperation led trough the Regional Youth Cooperation Office. Established in 2016, according to the model of the Youth Franco-German Office for youth cooperation, the Regional Youth Cooperation Office – RYCO, was supposed to be the shining example of co-management and youth representation that would promote

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CPDE Launches 2022 VNR Survey on SDG Implementation

The CSO Partnership for Development Effectiveness (CPDE) has launched a survey to gather feedback from CSOs on the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The survey aims to assess the progress made by governments and other stakeholders in achieving the SDGs and to identify areas where more action is needed. The survey will cover

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New Sector Study on the Implications of Istanbul Principles and DAC Recommendations on Civil Society

The CSO Partnership for Development Effectiveness (CPDE) and the International Civil Society Support (ICSO) have released a sector study on the implications of the Istanbul Principles and the Development Assistance Committee (DAC) recommendations for enabling civil society. The study examines how the Istanbul Principles and the DAC recommendations can enhance the enabling environment for CSOs

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Aspen Institute Releases Green Agenda for the Western Balkans

The Aspen Institute Germany has released a Green Agenda for the Western Balkans, which outlines a roadmap for the region to transition towards a more sustainable and green future. The agenda was developed in consultation with stakeholders from the Western Balkans region and provides recommendations for policymakers and civil society on promoting green growth, decarbonizing

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BCSDN Announces New Board Members

Ms. Maja Stojanovic and Ms. Snezhana Kamilovska Trpovska have been elected to join the BCSDN board with immediate effect. Ms. Maja Stojanovic, Executive Director of Civic Initiatives, has over 15 years of experience in civil society and brings expertise in advocacy, policy analysis, and project management to the BCSDN board. Ms. Snezhana Kamilovska Trpovska, Project

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BCSDN Welcomes Swedish Presidency Council Recommendations on Fundamental Rights and Civic Space

BCSDN has welcomed the recommendations made by the Swedish Presidency of the Council of the European Union regarding the protection of fundamental rights and civic space. The recommendations call for creating an enabling environment for civil society, protecting fundamental rights and freedoms, and supporting the development of a vibrant and pluralistic civil society. BCSDN praised the efforts

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BCSDN at CPDE All- County Meeting, Paris

The CSO Partnership for Development Effectiveness (CPDE) held an All-Country Meeting in Paris to discuss effective country work and gather inputs for its new Strategic Plan. Participants explored a range of topics related to civic space advocacy and CSO representation in global forums. The meeting highlighted the importance of effective country and regional work, as

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Civicus Monitor 2022: Global Trends in Civic Space and Democracy

The Civicus Monitor 2022 provides an overview of the state of civic freedoms and democratic practices in countries worldwide. The report presents the significant declines in civic space in many countries, with governments imposing restrictions on CSOs, media outlets, and freedom of assembly. The COVID-19 pandemic has been used as a pretext for increased surveillance

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LevizAlbania Expresses Support for Environmental Protection in Albania

In its recent article, LevizAlbania expressed support for efforts to protect the environment in Albania. The article underscores the significance of safeguarding the environment to achieve sustainable development and guarantee the well-being of future generations. LevizAlbania advocates for developing effective policies and regulations to promote environmental protection and believes that the government plays a crucial

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BCSDN Empowers Civil Society in the EU Accession Process and Beyond

BCSDN has been actively advocating for civil society empowerment in the Western Balkans and the EU through various initiatives in Brussels. In March 2023, BCSDN participated in the Civil Society Days 2023 organized by the European Economic and Social Committee to showcase their work in promoting civil society and citizen participation in the region while

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