What's New

News and updates from BCSDN and the region

Where AI and Climate Action Meet: Harnessing Technology for Sustainable Solutions

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 →

BCSDN Continues its Monitoring Matrix Revision Process

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 →

Protecting Civic Space with OECD Scan

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 →

Chilling Trends: Balkan Region’s Crackdown on Civil Society Organizations

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 →

Liberties Report Highlights Decline in Media Freedom in 2023

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

Read more →

The Western Balkans: Challenges and Opportunities for EU Accession

The article, published by the Wilfried Martens Centre for European Studies, discusses the challenges and opportunities the Western Balkans region faces in its pursuit of EU accession. The region, has been hit by a series of crises, including the Covid-19 pandemic, Russian aggression against Ukraine, rising inflation, and an energy crisis. The article examines specific

Read more →

Policy Brief on Crisis Prevention and Critical Infrastructure in the Western Balkans

The Institute for Democracy “Societas Civilis” Skopje (IDSCS) has released a policy brief on the importance of crisis prevention and critical infrastructure in the Western Balkans. The brief highlights the vulnerabilities of the region’s critical infrastructure, such as energy and transportation systems, to natural disasters and cyber-attacks. It calls for greater cooperation and coordination among

Read more →

Regional Workshop Emphasizes Multi-Stakeholder Cooperation for Effective AML/CFT Policies

BCSDN and the ECNL organized a regional workshop on anti-money laundering and countering the financing of terrorism (AML/CFT) in Skopje. The workshop brought together participants from civil society organizations, government agencies, and international organizations, with the aim of promoting multi-stakeholder dialogue and cooperation to develop effective policies and regulations that protect civic space while combating

Read more →

BCSDN Annual Council Meeting and Strategic Meeting Held in Berovo

BCSDN held its annual strategic meeting in Berovo, North Macedonia, from April 23 to 25. Representatives from member organizations and Executive Office staff attended the meeting, which aimed to align the network’s objectives and establish a shared impact vision. The meeting provided an opportunity for members to reflect on past experiences and gain a greater

Read more →