The Thematic Working Group (TWG) on “Advancing Inclusive Regional Mobility and Catalyzing Mobility-Driven Innovation and Knowledge Transfer in Western Balkans” held its second consultation session, part of the 2023 Tirana Civil Society and Think Tank Forum (CSF2023) of the Berlin Process. SCiDEV organized the session, which included relevant stakeholders, and it centered around two main themes: Enhancing Mobility-Driven Innovation and Engaging and Mobilizing the Diaspora.

Throughout the meeting, an urgent need was identified for comprehensive mapping of research and innovation infrastructures in the region. Despite existing efforts, the region’s current research and innovation infrastructure must be utilized due to a lack of coordination and transparency. Duplication of efforts by universities and educational institutions exacerbates this issue, leaving significant potential for innovation untapped. The session emphasized the need to prioritize young researchers, focusing on gender balance. Dedicated programs for young researchers and women in science fields and vocational education and training were identified as critical mechanisms for creating networks of excellence and facilitating professional exchange in the region.

A multi-stakeholder approach to innovation was advocated, particularly emphasizing collaborations between the private sector, academia, and businesses. Furthermore, participants agreed on the need to strengthen cooperation within and among academic institutions in the region, calling for establishing national and regional research platforms focused on innovation and research. Digital and technical skills for technology transfer were identified as a significant gap in the region’s innovation landscape. Stakeholders discussed that technology transfer goes beyond funding, requiring proper planning, monitoring, and policy support. Economic priorities should inform the design and implementation of these initiatives, moving away from a “one size fits all” approach.

The discussion then shifted to the issues of brain drain and diaspora engagement. The participants recognized the need for an honest appraisal of why people leave the region and agreed on establishing precise, measurable mechanisms for attracting the diaspora. Engaging the academic diaspora was highlighted as crucial for knowledge transfer and collaboration in innovation and research. Maximizing local/national resources and human capital was essential in effectively addressing the brain drain and engaging the diaspora. It was proposed that mobility mechanisms extend beyond academia to include startups and young entrepreneurs, fostering innovation and business development.

In conclusion, the session identified strategic policy frameworks, human capital investment, and better utilization of untapped resources as crucial factors in enhancing mobility-driven innovation and diaspora engagement in the region. The discussion demonstrated a clear need for more vital institutional willingness in the Western Balkans to reach out to the diaspora and attract new talents to foster knowledge, innovation, and technology transfer in the region. The TWG remains dedicated to furthering these conversations and developing actionable recommendations to guide policy and practice.