News and updates from BCSDN and the region
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
Read more →Target group: CSOs engaged in investigative journalism, journalists, researchers Countries: North Macedonia Short Description: Transparency International – Macedonia invites CSOs, journalists, and researchers to develop investigative stories on anti-corruption and rule of law topics. The competition, funded by the EU and Switzerland, seeks proposals related to the National Integrity System analysis. Duration: Competition open until
Read more →Target group: European foundations actively supporting the social, green, and digital transitions, as well as art and cultural funders seeking collaboration and innovation. Countries: European countries Short Description: The “European Philanthropy for a Just Triple Transition” event gathers European foundations and funders to discuss support for social, green, and digital transitions. It fosters collaboration and
Read more →The European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) has welcomed representatives from nine EU candidate countries to participate in the Enlargement Candidate Members’ (ECM) Initiative, marking their first involvement in EESC Plenary debates. BCSDN is delighted to announce that among those joining are four BCSDN representatives, including Ms. Biljana Spasovska, BCSDN’s Executive Director, Ms. Juliana Hoxha,
Read more →The Civil Society Week 2024, organized by EESC, will convene diverse voices from various sectors, including youth, journalists, and EU institutions, to discuss pressing topics on Europe’s future and democracy. Held in Brussels, #CivSocWeek will feature workshops, debates, and networking opportunities, aiming to empower citizens and influence European leaders’ agendas. As part of this event,
Read more →The Democracy Perception Index (DPI) surveys people across 53 countries, representing over 75% of the world’s population, to gauge global perspectives on democracy. Although 84% express the importance of democracy, only 57% are satisfied with the state in their country. Economic inequality (69%), corruption (68%), and corporate influence (60%) are perceived as major threats. Concerns
Read more →The Fundamental Rights Forum 2024, organized by the EU Fundamental Rights Agency (FRA), aims to shape Europe’s rights-based future. Focusing on themes like climate change, technological advances, and threats to democracy, the Forum provides space for dialogue and action. Participants will engage in the Marketplace of Connection, Forum Stage with global leaders, and the Human
Read more →The Freedom House Report 2024, highlights global freedom decline for the 18th year, impacting one-fifth of the world’s population due to armed conflicts, attacks on pluralism, and harming elections. The Western Balkans and Turkey countries’ reports reveal that Serbia experiences deteriorating political rights and civil liberties, marked by irregularities and media bias in recent local
Read more →The paper presents CONCORD’s recommendations to the EU and Member States to continue their support of civic space and an enabling environment for civil society worldwide through a structured and systemic strategy. It ties each section to the EU’s commitments to the OECD DAC recommendations on enabling civil society in development cooperation and humanitarian assistance
Read more →BCSDN welcomes the EU Parliament’s adoption of the Anti-SLAPP Directive, known as Daphne’s Law. The Directive sets a standard protecting media and public watchdogs from strategic lawsuits, requiring member states’ implementation by 2026. BCSDN has intensified its efforts to tackle this pressing issue due to the alarming prevalence of SLAPPs across the Western Balkans and
Read more →The Bosnian Parliament’s upper chamber unanimously passed the Law on the Prevention of Money Laundering and Financing of Terrorist Activities. Prior to the vote and adoption at the House of Peoples, the House of Representatives adopted the legislation in December last year. This Law is one of the crucial conditions on the country’s path to
Read more →The SafeJournalists Network expresses concern over the Albanian Supreme Court’s decision on journalist Elton Qyno’s case, where his equipment was confiscated. Qyno challenged the seizure, arguing it violates journalistic source confidentiality. The action sets a worrisome precedent. While legal adherence is acknowledged, it should align with international principles safeguarding journalistic sources, crucial for democratic societies.
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