Across the Western Balkans, civil society organizations and independent media face growing digital threats, including cyberattacks, unlawful surveillance, coordinated harassment, and the deployment of intrusive spyware. Many organizations lack access to expert support, leaving them vulnerable and unable to respond effectively. The Digital Resilience of the NGO Sector in the Western Balkans project strengthens regional protections by building sustainable digital security capacities and establishing dedicated mechanisms to help civic actors prevent, detect, and mitigate digital threats. 

About the Project 

This project enhances the role of the SHARE Foundation as the Regional Cybersecurity Resource Center, offering digital forensics, incident response, cybersecurity assessments, legal advisory, and practical guidance tailored to civil society and independent media across the region. 

The initiative includes the development and delivery of a Cyber Resilience Training Program and a Cybersecurity Practitioner Program, equipping individuals and organizations with hands-on skills to recognize, manage, and recover from digital security incidents. Through ongoing cooperation and knowledge exchange among participants, the project will also form the WB6 Cyber Security Network, an informal community of practitioners, CSOs, and media representatives working together to strengthen protections and share threat intelligence. 

These efforts will culminate in a Regional Cyber Resilience Roadmap, outlining shared priorities and long-term recommendations to improve digital security practices, institutional responses, and cross-border cooperation. 

Local Impact 

At the local level, the project empowers CSOs, journalists, youth groups, and grassroots initiatives with immediate, practical tools to protect themselves in a rapidly deteriorating digital environment. Organizations facing cyberattacks or suspicious intrusions gain access to specialized forensic investigations, emergency support, and tailored security assessments – services that are otherwise inaccessible or unaffordable for most non-profit actors. 

Furthermore, the training programs help build a pool of local first responders across Western Balkan countries who can provide guidance, early assistance, and community-based support. This strengthens everyday operational security and enhances the ability of civic actors to continue their work safely and confidently. 

Regional Impact 

By coordinating efforts across Serbia, Kosovo, Montenegro, and the wider WB6 region, the project creates a sustainable framework for cross-border collaboration on digital security. The WB6 Cyber Security Network enables ongoing peer learning, rapid exchange of threat information, and collective responses to regional cyber incidents. 

The project also advances regional advocacy efforts aimed at improving institutional accountability, legal protections, and oversight mechanisms related to surveillance and cybercrime. Through the jointly developed Regional Cyber Resilience Roadmap, partners and network members will shape a shared agenda for long-term reforms, strengthening digital rights and safeguarding civic space across the Western Balkans.