News and updates from BCSDN and the region
Reporters Without Borders has released its 2026 World Press Freedom Index, marking its 25th edition, warning of a global deterioration in journalism conditions, with 100 out of 180 countries recording a decline. Political pressure, growing authoritarian tendencies, and a weakened media market continue to undermine press freedom worldwide. In Europe and Central Asia, the region
Read more →As the global community looks beyond 2030, Forus presents its new Vision Paper, What We Defend, Demand and Decline, outlining key priorities for the next global development framework. Based on consultations across a global network representing over 24,000 NGOs, the paper explores possible futures—from continuity to reset or fragmentation—while highlighting the need to defend a
Read more →Albanian CSOs, including BCSDN member Partners Albania, have issued a joint statement calling for stronger alignment with EU standards on participation, funding, and dialogue, at a crucial moment in the country’s EU integration process. While welcoming recent EU developments, including the EU Civil Society Strategy and the EU Democracy Shield, organisations stress that their translation
Read more →Disinformation and foreign influence remained a significant challenge to democratic processes in North Macedonia in 2025, affecting media integrity, public trust, and security, according to a report by Metamorphosis Foundation. Beyond persistent pro-Russian narratives linked to the war in Ukraine, the report identifies a rise in anti-EU and anti-NATO messaging, as well as manipulative content
Read more →The European Parliament adopted its interim report on the 2028–2034 Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF), proposing a 10.72 billion EUR allocation for the AgoraEU programme—an increase of 2.14 billion EUR compared to the European Commission’s proposal. The proposal follows a joint open letter, supported by over 500 organisations, including BCSDN, calling for stronger investment in culture
Read more →During the local elections in Serbia on 29 March, multiple physical attacks and obstructions against journalists were reported across at least 10 cities, prompting strong condemnation from the European Federation of Journalists (EFJ) and the SafeJournalists Network. Journalists covering the elections were assaulted, threatened, and had equipment damaged or stolen, despite being clearly identified as
Read more →The Trade Union of Media of Montenegro (TUMM) has welcomed the conviction of Pljevlja Mayor Dario Vraneš for offensive remarks directed at investigative journalist Milka Tadić Mijović, noting it as an important step in addressing harmful public discourse. Trade Union of Media of Montenegro emphasised that the court recognised elements of disparagement, gender-based stereotyping, and
Read more →A new publication by Philea, Proven Practices in Gender Mainstreaming: Foundations in Conversation, explores how philanthropic organisations are embedding gender equality across their work. Drawing on practical examples and reflections, the report shows how integrating a gender perspective can strengthen impact across diverse social challenges. Grounded in Philea’s Equality Framework, it connects gender equality to
Read more →A new research report by Konekt, Re-thinking Community Foundations in North Macedonia, examines the emerging role of community foundations as local drivers of philanthropy and community development. The analysis shows that while initiatives such as Local Action Hubs demonstrate strong community engagement, local fundraising, and cross-sector collaboration, the overall ecosystem remains fragile and highly dependent
Read more →Community foundations across Europe continue to grow in number and relevance, with over 800 active foundations operating across 28 countries, according to a 2026 overview of the field. Rooted in local communities, these foundations mobilise financial, social, and knowledge resources to address diverse local needs and strengthen long-term development. However, the sector faces increasing pressure
Read more →A recent report by Peace Direct examines how funding approaches can better support civil society, particularly in the context of declining official development assistance and increasing pressure on local actors. Based on research and consultations with funders and grantee partners, the report identifies flexible funding as a key approach, highlighting that core or unrestricted funding
Read more →Target Group: Public institutions, NGOs, and international NGOs from eligible developing countries that are Parties to the 2005 Convention on the Protection and Promotion of the Diversity of Cultural Expressions. Aim: To support projects that foster the development of dynamic cultural and creative sectors, including through cultural policy development and implementation, and strengthening capacities of
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