News and updates from BCSDN and the region
Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama faced backlash for allegedly intimidating journalist Ambrozia Meta during a press conference in Tirana. Rama refused to answer Meta’s questions about an investment project involving Jared Kushner on the environmentally protected island of Sazan and was condemned as intimidating behavior. Despite demands for an apology, Rama defended his actions, claiming
Read more →The European Policy Center (EPC) discussion paper emphasizes the rise of deliberative democracy in Europe as a response to public demand for meaningful engagement. It identifies three key obstacles: fears of shifting power dynamics, a lack of innovative thinking, and diverging views on citizen participation. The paper also makes the case that the Union’s existing
Read more →A recent BIRN analysis reveals a concerning trend of violence and abuse targeting LGBT individuals in BiH and Serbia, particularly through popular dating apps like Grindr. Incidents such as a series of attacks in Sarajevo, where perpetrators lured victims via Grindr, highlight the risks faced by the community. Despite the prevalence of such crimes, hate
Read more →In a world marked by widening disparities between nations, initiatives like Adeso’s Pledge for Change offer hope for systemic transformation. The recent Supporter’s Sprint event, part of this initiative, is a shift in how INGOs engage in humanitarian aid and development. By envisioning a future where communities are empowered to drive their own development, the
Read more →The updated Core Humanitarian Standard (CHS) responds to the evolving humanitarian landscape by renewing commitments to crisis-affected communities. Developed with input from over 4,000 voices across 90 countries, the revised CHS prioritizes fundamental rights and aims for greater accessibility. While maintaining its core principles, the CHS now emphasizes a more people-centered approach, empowering communities to
Read more →Sida’s announcement to terminate all multi-year agreements with Swedish NGO partners by the end of 2024 has sent shockwaves through the community. This decision heralds a significant shift in funding dynamics, opening opportunities for global organizations to compete for support starting January 2025. The move, prompted by government directives, aims to implement a new funding
Read more →The Donor Transformation Challenge aims to revolutionize the support system for grassroots changemakers by addressing institutional barriers prevalent in donor organizations. Recognizing the disconnect between donors and local leaders, the challenge advocates for dismantling colonial and transactional practices ingrained in the current support system. Over 12 months, participants focus on various topics crucial for transformation,
Read more →Target group: Young cultural practitioners and youth-oriented CSOs in the field of culture Aim: To support youth cultural activism and foster creative solutions for social and political issues in the Western Balkans. It seeks to provide opportunities for young individuals in the cultural and creative sectors, promote cultural cooperation within the region, and recognize cultural
Read more →Target group: CSOs, journalists, researchers, and vulnerable/marginalized groups in North Macedonia. Aim: To promote and protect human rights, fundamental freedoms, democracy, and the rule of law in North Macedonia. Specific objectives include advancing rule of law and democratic institutions, protecting and empowering individuals, and safeguarding fundamental freedoms. Amount: between 90,000 and 150,000 EUR, covering 60%
Read more →Target group: ALDA members in EU Member States, CSOs Aim: Fund projects fostering EU engagement and awareness, aligned with ALDA’s thematic hubs, with a focus on EU values and the 2024 EU elections. Amount: Grants up to 20,000 EUR per project, totaling 153,500 EUR overall. Duration: 10 May – 22 October Deadline: 5 May Link
Read more →Target group: Individuals, media outlets, associations, and CSOs in the Western Balkans promoting independent journalism and media development. Aim: Support innovative projects enhancing operational capacity, content production, audience engagement, and professionalism in the media sector across the Western Balkans. Amount: Grants up to GBP 4,000 for individuals and initiatives, and up to GBP 10,000 for
Read more →Target group: Early-career scholars and practitioners in the fields of law, political sciences, social sciences, philosophy, and related disciplines, focusing on issues related to democracy and/or the rule of law in Europe. Countries: Residents of the European Union, non-EU EEA countries, EU candidate countries, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom Short Description: The re:constitution programme aims
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