News and updates from BCSDN and the region
The Solidarity Action Network toolkit equips CSOs to navigate complex challenges like inequality, polarization, climate change, and health crises using foresight methods. It offers practical tools and strategies to anticipate future trends, strengthen resilience, and foster proactive responses. Developed by experts commissioned by the International Civil Society Centre, the toolkit draws on insights from the
Read more →The article by Charlotte Timson, Vice-Chair of BOND and former CEO of Transform Trade, states the importance of flexible funding and transformative approaches within development organizations. At the Bogotá #ShiftThePower Global Summit, Timson learned about the inadequacies of current funding systems and the critical role of community-led initiatives in achieving justice. Transform Trade began a
Read more →Target group: Digital rights advocates, pro bono lawyers, and litigators in Europe Aim: Support strategic litigation for digital rights advancement in Europe Amount: The average litigation track support grant is around 50 000 EUR, while pre-litigation research support is around 30 000 EUR Duration: Depending on case complexities Deadline: Eligibility check request – 15 July;
Read more →Target group: CSOs in the Western Balkans (Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo, North Macedonia, Montenegro, and Serbia), particularly grassroots and youth organizations. Aim: Strengthening CSOs’ capacity to engage in anti-corruption efforts and policy advocacy, promoting transparency and good governance. Amount: 7 000 to 10 000 EUR per grant application Duration: N/A Deadline: 1 August Link
Read more →Target group: Individuals, media outlets, associations, CSOs, and content creators from the Western Balkans, especially underrepresented and marginalized groups, youth CSOs, women-led organizations, and niche media platforms. Aim: To support the validation and development of innovative media business ideas through financial grants, mentorship, and a structured acceleration program. Amount: N/A Duration: 5 months Deadline: 1
Read more →Target group: Journalists from Southeast, Eastern, and Central Europe Countries: Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Georgia, Greece, Hungary, Kosovo, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Ukraine, Poland, Romania, Russia, Serbia, Slovakia, Turkey, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan. Short Description: The BIRN Summer School of Investigative Reporting offers intensive training for 30 journalists from Southeast, Eastern, and Central Europe.
Read more →Target group: Aspiring Journalists in Europe Countries: EU Member States, Neighbouring, and Accession Countries. Short Description: The Commission launches the application period for the 8th edition of Youth4Regions, targeting aspiring journalists. Successful applicants will undergo a week-long training in Brussels, including sessions, mentorship, press room work, and visits to EU institutions. Applications are open in
Read more →Target group: Young researchers and academic citizens up to 30 years from Serbia Countries: Serbia Short Description: The Trag Foundation’s “Polet Movement” program invites young researchers to participate in a nine-month educational and research initiative, designed to foster involvement in decision-making processes and public advocacy. In partnership with the Centre for Social Policy and KoRSE,
Read more →Target group: Human rights activists worldwide, working at the grassroots level with NGOs. Countries: Applicants from all regions of the world, except high-income countries unless they represent marginalized communities. Short Description: The HRAP is designed to strengthen the skills, knowledge, and networks of human rights activists. It focuses on various issues including sexual and gender-based
Read more →Target group: Public sector institutions in Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, North Macedonia, Montenegro, Serbia, and Kosovo. Countries: Western Balkans Short Description: The Public Administration Awards in the Western Balkans, organized by ReSPA and SIGMA, seeks to recognize initiatives improving public service delivery and governance. These awards highlight projects fostering good governance, citizen engagement, and innovation
Read more →Civic space in the Western Balkans is shrinking, with activists and journalists facing SLAPP suits, media restrictions, and public smear campaigns. We recognize SLAPPs as a crucial topic related to one of the key standards for ensuring an enabling environment for civil society in WBT – the legal guarantees and respect of the fundamental freedoms
Read more →North Macedonia’s recent parliamentary and presidential elections ushered in a return of the right-wing VMRO-DPMNE party, signaling a potential shift away from EU integration efforts. VMRO-DPMNE, known for its nationalist stance and attacks on civil society during past governance, secured victories in the last elections. The party capitalized on public frustration over slow EU negotiations,
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