The Open Society Foundations—Western Balkans (OSF-WB) hosted “Balkans in Brussels: Igniting Hope,” an informal networking event that brought together EU parliamentarians, key EU stakeholders, and leading civil society voices from the Western Balkans and EU countries on 25 February 2025 in Brussels.  

The event followed the enlightening discussions that focused democratic resilience, media freedom, and economic reforms in the Western Balkans, highlighting civil society’s role in policy reforms and EU integration “Western Balkans Civil Society Policy Dialogues in Brussels: How Do We Get to Enlargement That Delivers” organized by the Balkan Civil Society Development Network (BCSDN) and European Policy Institute (EPI), and supported by Open Society Foundations Western Balkans (OSF-WB), in the framework of the Ignita initiative, and the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (SIDA).  

“Balkans in Brussels: Igniting Hope” spotlighted civil society’s endeavors to strengthen EU enlargement and democratic resilience in the Western Balkans.  

Valentina Superti, Director for Western Balkans at the Directorate-General for Enlargement and Eastern Neighbourhood (DG ENEST), Mr. Oliver Röpke, President of the European Economic and Social Committee, and Andi Dobrushi, Director of Open Society Foundations Western Balkans, delivered opening remarks to the audience.  

Andi Dobrushi, Director of Open Society Foundations Western Balkans, welcomed the participants and reinforced civil society’s role in the region’s transformation.

“Tonight is about more than just exchanging business cards; it’s about sharing ideas, stories, and hopes. Civil society organizations in the Western Balkans have been at the forefront of change, standing resilient even when progress seemed unattainable. Their commitment to democracy, human rights, and European integration is shaping a future where the region is not only looking toward Europe but is also an integral part of its narrative. In this renewed momentum for EU enlargement, our connections and efforts matter more than ever.”

Valentina Superti, Director for Western Balkans at the Directorate-General for Enlargement and Eastern Neighbourhood (DG ENEST), underscored the need for unity and collective effort in advancing EU enlargement, highlighting the vital role of civil society alongside institutions.

“Hope is the last to die, and we are working relentlessly to build a stronger European project with as many countries as possible. My personal mission is to bring as many countries as possible into the European family. Enlargement—or unification—can only be a success story if everyone is on board. Civil society plays an essential role alongside institutions. Tonight is about raising awareness, forging connections, and committing to the work ahead.”

Mr. Oliver Röpke, President of the European Economic and Social Committee, highlighted the significant progress made in the enlargement process, particularly regarding the Western Balkans and Eastern Neighborhood, while reaffirming the importance of civil society in the implementation of key plans.

“As Chair of the Enlargement Committee, I’m proud to report significant progress on our key priorities—particularly the enlargement of the Western Balkans and the Eastern Neighborhood. Our opinion on the growth plan for the Western Balkans emphasizes the critical role of civil society in its implementation. However, recent concerns regarding funding for civil society organizations in the European Parliament are unacceptable. We will continue to be a voice for civil society and push for necessary changes.”

The informal networking event created a space for engagement and discussion on the ongoing transformation in the Western Balkans region. The evening contributed towards cultivating meaningful connections and collaboration between EU and WB6 stakeholders and reignited the shared hope for a more inclusive and united Europe.   

As a key actor in the region, OSF-WB will continue to play an instrumental role in supporting and amplifying the work of civil society organizations. Through initiatives that promote and ensure civil society remains at the forefront of the region’s transformation and EU integration efforts, OSF-WB remains committed to contributing to the creation of a more resilient and united Europe, where collaboration and shared vision will lead to lasting progress.