The 12th edition of the Point Conference, held in Sarajevo on June 24th and 25th, featured as a leading regional event in the fields of political accountability and new technologies, addressed a variety of pressing issues. The first day saw in-depth discussions on the increasingly prevalent “foreign agent laws,” which have raised significant concerns about freedom of speech and the adverse impacts on civil society organizations. Speakers from Georgia, Belarus, Egypt, and Bosnia and Herzegovina provided diverse perspectives on this topic, shedding light on its implications across different contexts in the Western Balkans.

A dynamic panel also tackled the monetization of disinformation in the online sphere, featuring insights from prominent figures such as Craig Silverman, an American journalist, and Mirjana Jevtović, editor of Radio Free Europe’s Digital Forensics Unit in Belgrade. Jevtović presented findings from a substantial investigation into advertising fraud in North Macedonia, highlighting the scale and impact of such deceptive practices in the region.

Furthermore, the conference extensively discussed EU legislation aimed at shaping the European digital single market, including the Digital Markets Act, Digital Services Act, and Artificial Intelligence Act. Experts and stakeholders examined how these regulations could potentially be applied and adapted within the legal frameworks of Western Balkan countries, emphasizing both challenges and opportunities for regional integration and digital governance.

The second day continued with a focus on digital security, artificial intelligence applications, and innovative digital solutions tailored for media organizations operating in the Western Balkans. Discussions also underscored the critical battle against disinformation, with speakers highlighting narratives that promote euroscepticism and detailing prevalent online fraud schemes within the region. Throughout the event, interactive workshops provided participants with practical insights and strategies to address these complex challenges effectively.

For those seeking more detailed information about the discussions and workshops held during this year’s Point Conference, comprehensive resources are available on the official conference website (https://point.zastone.ba/), reflecting the diverse expertise and robust engagement that characterized the event.