What's New

News and updates from BCSDN and the region

Civic Participation is Key to Achieving Sustainable Development Goals

The United Nations’ 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development is an ambitious plan to address global challenges such as poverty, climate change, and inequality. However, achieving these goals will require active participation from citizens worldwide. The article highlights the importance of civic participation in driving progress towards the SDGs. Through initiatives such as community-driven development, participatory

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Breaking the Code: Russian and Chinese Disinformation and Illicit Financial Flows in Southeast Europe

The Center for the Study of Democracy published a report titled “Breaking the Code: Russian and Chinese Disinformation and Illicit Financial Flows in Southeast Europe.” The report highlights the methods and strategies used by Russia and China to spread disinformation and to conduct illicit financial activities in Southeast Europe. It also provides recommendations for policymakers

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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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