Alpbach, August 23-24, 2024 – The Open Society Foundations – Western Balkans (OSF-WB) hosted “Balkans Convene: Pathways to Progress,” culminating a series of enlightening discussions focused on the present and the future of the Western Balkans.

This event followed the impactful “FutureCrafting the Balkans: From Hope to Action” Lab and the “Hip Hope: Reimagining the Future in the Balkans” Chat, both conducted in collaboration with the ERSTE Foundation.

Mr. Andi Dobrushi, Director of Open Society Foundations – Western Balkans, warmly welcomed the guests, underscoring the organization’s unwavering commitment to advancing progress in the region. He underlined that European Forum Alpbach has served as crucial platforms for crafting actionable strategies and fostering new insights for the region.

Mr. Andreas Treichl, President of the European Forum Alpbach, also addressed the guests, reflecting on the Forum’s mission since its inception: to be a space where impactful ideas are born and translated into real actions. “That’s the essence of Alpbach,” he stated.

H.E. Vjosa Osmani, President of Kosovo, delivered an inspiring speech, underlining the importance of building bridges, overcoming obstacles, and sharing democratic values across the region.

H.E. Jakov Milatović, President of Montenegro’s speech highlighted the need for collaborative efforts to strengthen regional ties, urging everyone to remain committed to a shared vision of a united Western Balkans.

While this event wrapped up a series of productive days, it also marked the beginning of key ideas and fostered vital connections that will play their part in driving progress in the region.