EU Integration and Regional Cooperation
Inspiring a unified agenda for progress in the Western Balkans by supporting regional structures that shape and influence EU integration and regional cooperation.
Projects on this thematic area
CSF 2026 — Civil Society & Think Tank Forum
The Civil Society & Think Tank Forum (CSF) is the official civil society platform of the Berlin Process, established...
GuiDE to EU Membership – Germany’s role in paving the way for enlargement
About the project “GuiDE to EU Membership – Germany’s Role in Paving the Way for Enlargement” is a one-year pilot...
From Periphery to Power: The Geo-economic Case for South Eastern Europe
About the project This pilot project builds on the Geoeconomic Interconnectivity Index (GEOII) to identify the moments in the...
Eyes on Transport – Boosting Accountability of Mobility Investments
About the project This project is implemented by CEE Bankwatch Network (Czech Republic), in cooperation with Ekosvest (North Macedonia),...
A Generation at Risk: Addressing Youth Crime and School Safety through Informed Research and Reform
About the project The project “A Generation at Risk: Addressing Youth Crime and School Safety through Informed Research and...
WB Reform and Growth Monitor
About the project This regional project is implemented by Think for Europe Network (TEN) and Transparency International-Bosnia and Herzegovina...
From exclusion to participation: Passenger rights for persons with disabilities in Albania
Fondacioni “Se Bashku” (Together Foundation), in partnership with the Centre for Legal Empowerment (CLE) aims to enhance the participation of civil society organizations in...
Strengthening civil society engagement in transport and mobility reform across the Western Balkans
The Transport Policy Partnership is a regional program jointly developed by the Transport Community Permanent Secretariat and Open Society...
Potential of Triple Transition on EU Candidate Countries: towards the EU, Green and Digital transitions
ABOUT THE PROJECT The overarching goal of the project is to shed light on the economic integration of the...
Two Capitals, Two Sustainable Mobility Visions: A Comparative Assessment of Urban Mobility Plans in Belgrade and Podgorica
This project compares urban mobility planning in Belgrade and Podgorica to support more inclusive, sustainable, and EU-aligned transport policies. ...
#ConnectBalkans: The Western Balkans Regional Summer Academy
GENERAL DESCRIPTION #ConnectBalkans – Regional Summer Academy is a pilot regional initiative led by the Western Balkans Fund (WBF)...
Strengthening Good Neighborly Relations and Regional Cooperation in the Western Balkans: Pathways to EU Integration
About the project The project “Strengthening Good Neighborly Relations and Regional Cooperation in the Western Balkans: Pathways to EU...
A Future Within Reach: From Disenchantment to Dialogue on EU Integration
GENERAL DESCRIPTIONThe European Democracy Youth Network (EDYN) is a growing, cross-partisan network of830+ pro-democracy civic and political leaders, ages...
(InCLUDE) – Include the Western Balkans in the EU as Full Members
InCLUDE is a three-year initiative by the Istituto Affari Internazionali (IAI), supported by the Open Society Foundation – Western...
South East Europe Observatory: Liberal Dialogues
SEE South East Europe Observatory is a permanent regional observatory launched by Fondazione Luigi Einaudi, supported by Open Society...
Observatory of State of Youth in Western Balkans
The Western Balkans Youth Observatory is a comprehensive regional initiative establishing the first systematic monitoring and analysis framework for...
Regional Youth Leadership Mobility Programme
The Regional Youth Leadership Mobility Programme (RYLMP) is a regional initiative that empowers young researchers, activists, and professionals from...
The Political Realities of Generation Z in the Western Balkans
A First-of-Its-Kind Study to Shape Youth-Centered Policies Across the Region Understanding the perspectives of young people is essential, especially...
think nea – New Narratives of EU Integration
think nea – New Narratives of EU Integration is a forward-looking initiative by the Hellenic Foundation for European and...
Fundamentals First – Improving the Rule of Law and Inclusiveness in the Western Balkans Energy Transition
The “Fundamentals First – Improving the Rule of Law and Inclusiveness in the Western Balkans Energy Transition“ project, implemented...
Advocacy for the implementation of the new digital EU regulation in the WB6 region
The project implemented by Zasto ne, focuses on enhancing the reach and impact of the EU digital regulatory and...
Enhancing Mobility-Driven Research and Innovation in Western Balkans for Sustained Economic Growth and Convergence with the European Union
This project focuses on fostering regional integration, research excellence, and innovation-driven growth. By enhancing collaboration between Western Balkan countries...
Advancing Regional Security Cooperation in the Western Balkans (ASCEND-WB6)
ABOUT THE PROJECT:The ASCEND-WB6 project seeks to achieve two interconnected goals: enhancing regional security cooperation and driving the integration...
Advancing Green Infrastructure in the Western Balkans 6 (WB6)
ABOUT THE PROJECTAdvancing Green Infrastructure in the Western Balkans 6 (WB6) project aims to engage with policymakers at the...
Converge2eu – Monitoring and Supporting Western Balkan Convergence With the European Union
This initiative is designed to accelerate the Western Balkans' economic, social and institutional convergence with the EU
Balkans Forward Initiative: Keeping the Region High on the Transatlantic Agenda
The Balkans Forward Initiative of the Atlantic Council’s Europe Center is the home of the Western Balkans in Washington,...
State aid and foreign direct investment in the Western Balkan countries: Fostering transparency and generating space for regional coordination of investment policies
This project seeks to map existing state aid programs, assess their impact on foreign investors, and develop evidence-based policy...
CATALYZING REGIONAL CHANGE: WHAT DOES HOPE LOOK LIKE IN THE BALKANS?
Bringing together multi sector experts to rethink a prosperous and resilient future.
Pathways to EU Integration: Advancing the Dialogue on the Growth Plan for the Western Balkans
Monitoring the implementation of the Growth Plan reforms in the Western Balkans.
Ignita Initiative
Igniting change by advocating together for regional cooperation and EU integration
Regional Network of Centers for Advanced Studies in Southeast Europe (RECAS)
Bridging scientific academic research and policymaking in the Western Balkans.
Progressive integration of Western Balkans into the EU
The economic benefits of integrating the Western Balkans into the EU.
Civil Society Forum Tirana 2023
Fostering constructive and inclusive multi-stakeholder dialogue for the Western Balkans.
Bearing Witness to War – Traveling Photography Exhibition on Ukraine Across the Western Balkans
How can photography reveal the truth about war? In 2024, The Open Society Foundations – Western Balkans (OSF-WB), in...
Western Balkan Countries in the context of the EU enlargement strategy
Seizing the opportunity of the EU’s new Growth Plan for the region.
Publications on this thematic area
Youth Perceptions of Europe in the Western Balkans: Key Regional Patterns and Implications
Young people across the Western Balkans strongly identify with European values and view Europe as a source of stability,...
Challenges to the integration of the Western Balkans into European Union supply chains
Two decades of economic integration between the Western Balkans and the EU have delivered meaningful gains, including the elimination...
Why Credible EU Membership Matters: How to Sequence Integration and Accession in Ukraine and the Western Balkans
This IAI Brief examines how the EU can maintain the transformative power of enlargement by strategically sequencing gradual integration...
From Nuuk to Reykjavik: The High North’s geopolitical scramble and the consequences for the EU and its enlargement policy
This policy brief examines how the Arctic is rapidly shifting from a peripheral climate issue into a frontline arena...
From Nuuk to Reykjavik:The High North’s geopolitical scramble and theconsequences for the EU and its enlargement policy
The latest policy brief developed under the think nea – New Narratives of EU Integration initiative explores how evolving...
Democracy Pulse: Gen Z in the Western Balkans report
This is the factsheet with the main findings from the “Democracy Pulse: Gen Z in the Western Balkans report.”...
Democracy Pulse: Gen Z in the Western Balkans
Between May and June 2025, Open Society Foundations – Western Balkans commissioned a survey of over 6,000 Gen Zers...
Montenegro and Croatia: New and old problems and their European dimension
Relations between Montenegro and Croatia over the past four decades have gone through several phases, from the conflict period...
Europe’s Overlooked Allies: Why the Western Balkans Matter for EU Defence Readiness
Europe’s pursuit of greater defence readiness is reshaping not only its security policies, but also the geography of its...
Good Neighbourly Relations in the Western Balkans: Bilateral Disputes and State-Level Politics That Perpetuate Them
Good neighbourly relations are a central pillar of the European Union’s enlargement policy, particularly in the Western Balkans, where...
Europe’s Overlooked Allies: Why the Western Balkans Matter for EU Defence Readiness
Produced within the framework of think nea – New Narratives of EU Integration, an initiative supported by Open Society...
On the edge of convergence: Research, innovation and mobility in the Western Balkans
Research, innovation, and mobility in the Western Balkans (WB6) are at a turning point—between advancing integration into the European...
Strengthening the Enforcement of the Energy Community Treaty: Challenges and Pathways
This policy brief focuses on the Energy Community, its role and functioning as well as its implementation in the...
Behind the Curtain: Examining the Adoption and Content of Serbia’s Reform Agenda
In this policy brief we analyse the adoption and content of Serbia’s reform agenda adopted on the 3rd of...
The EU offer is here, what now? Reforms and market integration: Time for delivery
The EU’s Growth Plan for the Western Balkans (GPWB) and its €6 billion Reform and Growth Facility (RGF) aim...
Enlargement on the Edge: Strategic investment, credibility, and resilience
This memo looks to further the enlargement process from its technocratic angle and shift it towards its political reality....
Balancing the Edge: Advancing the energy transition and rule of law on the Western Balkans’ path to EU accession
In this memo, we see that the Western Balkans face a decisive moment in Europe’s climate transition, highly exposed...
Western Balkans on the Edge of Digital Transition: Regional Coordination and EU integration pathways
The Western Balkans’ digital landscape stands at a turning point as global and regional trends challenge online governance and...
Securing enlargement: Advancing WB6 Gradual integration in the EU through cybersecurity, FDI screening, and rule of law
The Western Balkans Six (WB6) are at a crucial stage in their EU integration journey, as shifting geopolitics and...
Digital Services Act (DSA) and the Code of Practice on Disinformation: European Union Institutions
In this advocacy brief, we look to expand the reach and impact of the EU digital regulatory and co-regulatory...
Digital Services Act (DSA) and the Code of Practice on Disinformation: Very Large Oline Platforms
In this advocacy brief, we look to expand the reach and impact of the EU digital regulatory and co-regulatory...
Digital Services Act (DSA) and the Code of Practice on Disinformation: Civil Society Organizations
In this advocacy brief, we look to expand the reach and impact of the EU digital regulatory and co-regulatory...
Migration flows from the Western Balkans to Germany: Implications and recommendations
Migration has long shaped the demographic and economic realities of the Western Balkans, with Germany emerging as the primary...
Why professional fact-checking matters: Meta, the EU, and the Western Balkans
This analysis puts in perspective on one hand Meta’s announcement to end its Third-Party Fact-Checking Program (TPFC) and on...
Comparative Analysis of Housing Policies in Selected WB Cities and EU Cities
Rethinking Housing Affordability in BiH and Montenegro: Lessons from Denmark and the Netherlands A new comparative policy paper has...
The EU’s Comitology: An Opportunity for Early Institutional Integration of the Western Balkans
This paper examines the evolving EU enlargement policy, particularly the shift toward gradual integration of candidate countries prior to...
Policy Paper – Unlocking the Potential of Mobility-Driven Research and Innovation to Enable Brain Circulation in the Western Balkans
This policy paper calls for a set of recommendations to foster brain circulation and counter the persistent problem of...
Economic convergence, demography, labour markets: what progress have EU candidate countries made?
In this analysis, we examine selected income, demographic and labour market indicators for nine actual and potential candidates for...
Reining in the Enlargement Vetoes: The German-Slovenian Non-Paper Under Review
Few aspects of EU enlargement policy have sparked as much debate as its decision-making procedure. Amid shifting geopolitical realities...
Policy Measures Related to Mobility-Driven Research & Innovation in the New Growth Plan for the Western Balkans
This working paper, part of the Ignita Initiative, explores how mobility-driven research and innovation (R&I) can unlock the transformative...
Governing the Green Shift: Rule of Law and Energy Reform in the Western Balkans-Assessment Report
This report is based on the previous observations made during the Civil Society organisation forum 2023 and the project...
Working Document – Enhancing Western Balkans’ Participation in Horizon Europe and Framework Programme 10
This working document outlines strategies to enhance the Western Balkans’ participation in Horizon Europe and the upcoming Framework Programme...
Bridging Politics and Perception
Analysis of the European Commission’s Progress Reports on environmental developments and climate changes in Kosovo The Republic of Kosovo...
KOSOVO/SERBIA IN ONE ROOM | What do people really think?
The normalization process between Kosovo and Serbia has long been stalled due to deep-seated mutual distrust, a lack of...
Intra-Western Balkans dynamics: stocktaking and ways ahead
Unlocking Economic Integration in the Western Balkans: Barriers, Opportunities, and the Role of the EU This policy paper explores...
Alignment of the Six Countries of the Western Balkans (WB6) with the EU Regulation on Screening of Foreign Direct Investments
This policy brief gives a diagnostic of the different legal situations in the Western Balkans countries regarding the EU...
Regional Security Cooperation in the Western Balkans
This report brings together the insights of leading experts on security and European integration to assess the state of...
Regional Cooperation Initiatives in the Western Balkans – Improving Countries’ Preparedness for Staged Accession to the European Union
This study examines the impact that regional cooperation initiatives have on Western Balkan (WB) countries’ preparedness for EU membership....
One year after the adoption of the Growth Plan for the Western Balkans: Where do we stand?
Op-ed written by Simonida KacarskaAt the end of March 2025, the EU started disbursing the pre-financing payments foreseen under...
Green Infrastructure Investments in the WB6 – Implementing the Green Agenda for the Western Balkans
This policy paper examines the state of the Green Agenda for the Western Balkans (GAWB) across the six Western...
Europe’s Overlooked Allies: Why the Western Balkans Matter for EU Defence Readiness
This analysis reviews the partnership between the Western Balkans countries and EU. Despite not being members yet, they have...
Growth Plan for Western Balkans – Reform & Growth Facility
The rise of radical right and Eurosceptic political forces and the impact on the EU’s enlargement policy
The Ignita Initiative supports forward-thinking research on EU integration, and within this framework, think nea – New Narratives of...
Reform Agenda Monitor North Macedonia
This report analyses North Macedonia’s Reform Agenda within the EU’s Growth Plan for the Western Balkans (2024–2027). Developed under...
Albania’s Reform Agenda Explained: Insights on Design, Content, and Implementation
In this policy brief we examine the different phases of the Reform Agenda, preparation, unpacking and delivering in Albania....
Inclusion of the Six Countries of the Western Balkans (WB6) in the European Union Rule of Law Report
This policy brief examines how the Western Balkans (WB6) countries can be fully included in the EU’s Rule of...
Kosovo’s Reform Agenda: The gaps between planning and implementation
This policy brief explains the difference between the planning and implementation of Kosovo’s reform agenda created under the EU’s...
Ten Days to Comment: Montenegro’s Reform Agenda and the Limits of Public Participation
This policy brief comments the Montenegro’s 2024–2027 Reform Agenda (RA) and outlines the country’s strategy to accelerate EU integration...
Analysis for market integration initiatives between the Western Balkans and the European Union, beyond the Growth Plan for the Western Balkans
“The report identifies opportunities for deeper integration, including expanding CRM initiatives, leveraging regional investment frameworks, advancing digital and green...
The Far-Right in Germany and Across the EU: A threat to future enlargements?
In recent years, the political landscape of the EU has been undergoing a significant transformation due to the rising...
Digital Services Act: A crucial contribution to the protection of digital rights in the Western Balkans
In recent years, creating mechanisms to protect the digital space from illegal content and establishing rules for transparency and...
Empowering Western Balkans Economies: State Aid Incentives and Transparency in the Region
The publication discusses state aid in the Western Balkans, focusing on its role in promoting economic development, regional cohesion,...
Instrument for Pre-Accession Assistance (IPA) to WB6 – Opportunities, Challenges and Paths forward
The EU Financial Perspective 2021-2027 has brought both, opportunities and challenges for national authorities in WB6 pre-accession countries. The...
Integration of the Six Countries of the Western Balkans (WB6) in the European Union Agency for Cybersecurity
As the WB six countries keep a slow pace of reforms, coupled with the EU Member States’ lack of...
Template 2.0 for Staged Accession to the EU
The Template for Staged Accession to the EU was first published in the autumn of 2021, against the backdrop...
Converging futures: Economic integration of the Western Balkans into the European Union
This paper is based on inputs from three regional online consultation events and one hybrid public event of the...
The Potential of the New Growth Plan for the Western Balkans
This policy brief, developed as part of research conducted during the Civil Society Forum in Tirana 2023—supported by the...
The Potential of the Growth Plan for the Western Balkan Countries — Recommendations for Implementation
This policy brief, developed as part of research conducted during the Civil Society Forum in Tirana 2023—supported by the...
New Growth Plan for the Western Balkans: Solid Foundations, Shaky Extensions
This policy paper, developed as part of research conducted through thematic groups during the Civil Society Forum in Tirana...
Donor Strategies in a Time of Paradigm Shift: Mapping of the Donors Active in the Western Balkans
Catalyst Balkans and Open Society Foundations-Western Balkans present the third edition of the Mapping of Donors Active in the...
Key Recommendations of the Thematic Working Group on Digitalization and Connectivity
As part of the Civil Society Forum Tirana 2023, supported by the Open Society Foundations Western Balkans, Zasto ne...
The Road to CSF Tirana 2023
Open Society Foundations – Western Balkans (OSFWB), in cooperation with the Hellenic Foundation for European & Foreign Policy (ELIAMEP)...
Key Recommendations of the Thematic Working Group on Access to European Single Market
This paper is based on inputs from three regional online consultation events and one hybrid public event of the...
Key Recommendations of the Thematic Working Group on Climate and Green Agenda
This Policy Paper is prepared by the Institute for Good Governance and Policies in Environment and Climate Change (IPECC)...
Key Recommendations of the Thematic Working Group on Energy
These recommendations stem from consultations with stakeholders across all Western Balkan countries and the EU within the Thematic Working...
Key Recommendations of the Thematic Working Group on Mobility
These recommendations stem from the consultation process held in the Thematic Working Group (TWG) framework on Mobility led by...
Key Recommendations of the Thematic Working Group on Politics of Enlargement
This paper is prepared in the framework of the run-up activities for the Berlin Process Civil Society Forum 2023....
Key Recommendations of the Thematic Working Group on Security and Geopolitics
These recommendations stem from consultations with security experts across all Western Balkan countries within the Thematic Working Group (TWG)...
Policy Paper: Advancing Mobility-Driven Research and Innovation and Knowledge Transfer in Western Balkans
“This policy paper addresses the state of affairs, identifies barriers and areas for improvement,and proposes concrete recommendations for the...
To what extent do political parties in North Macedonia comply with legal obligations for financial transparency?
Authors: Marija Mirchevska, Diana Zhupanoska, Danche Danilovska-Bajdevska, and Nada Naumovska
Norms and Practices of Political Party Financing in North Macedonia
Authors: Marija Mirchevska, Diana Zhupanoska, Danche Danilovska-Bajdevska, and Nada Naumovska
Guide on Institutional Mechanisms for Civil Society Participation in Policy-Making Related to EU Integrations
Please download the material in English and Macedonian.
Visa Liberalization for Kosovo: The Grand Finale
Written by Augustin Palokaj and Gjeraqina Tuhina, this paper analyses the process so far, the nature and logic of...
Community of Serb Municipalities in Limbo of Unfulfilled Agreements
Policy brief on the Association of Serb-majority municipalities deals with the research of key factors important for the better position of...
New Apple of Discord: SOC in the Dialogue on Normalization
In the analysis of public policy options New apple of discord: SOC in the dialogue on normalization examines the likelihood...
Visa Liberalization: Kosovo’s Saga on the EU Path
Authored by Zoran Nechev and Donika Emini, the policy brief “Visa Liberalization: Kosovo’s Saga on the EU Path” goes...
Higher Education as a Catalyst to Stimulate Citizen Participation in the Democratic Processes in North Macedonia
Please download the material in English and Macedonian.
Perfect Storm or Rapid Decarbonization
Energy transition or de-carbonization of the energy sector is a fundamental component of the concept of sustainable development that...
Electricity markets in the system – an economic prerequisite effective transition (BOS)
The Energy Community (EEC) was formed with the aim of establishing a mechanism for extending the EU acquis in...
Report on Implementation of The Law on Free Legal Aid in The Period from October 2019 to December 2020
Please download the material in English and Macedonian.
Report on Human Rights Violation of Marginalized Communities Through Case Studies
Please download the material in English and Macedonian.
Monitoring the Implementation of The Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 16.3 on National Level
Please download the material in English and Macedonian.
Albania and Greece relations – What do citizens think?
Relations between Albania and Greece remain a complicated riddle. The two neighbouring countries have extensive historical, economic and social...
IT’S THE EU, NOT WESTERN BALKAN ENLARGEMENT…
Kosovo and Spain at the EU level: A battle of semantics
Authored by Pol Vila Sarriá and Agon Demjaha, the policy brief ” Kosovo and Spain at the EU level: A...
Blind Justice Towards a Captured State in North Macedonia
Authors: Goce Trpkovski, Vasko Magleshov, Aleksandar Dimitrievski, Gordan Kalajdziev, Denis Preshova, Margarita Caca Nikolovska, Vera Koco, Darko Avramovsk
The original framework of the political dialogue
The first policy note from the series, published as part of the dialogue and advocacy project “Strengthening the Kosovo...
How to recognize reality?: The issue of Serbia’s recognition of Kosovo
The second policy note from the series, published as part of the dialogue and advocacy project “Strengthening the Kosovo...
Kosovo’s path toward EU and UN membership
The third policy note from the series, published as part of the dialogue and advocacy project “Strengthening the Kosovo...
Kosovo-Albania: Interaction, knowledge, values, beliefs, cooperation and unification
Please download the material in English. [Albanian]Kosovë – Shqipëri: Ndërveprimi, njohuritë, vlerat, besimet, bashkëpunimi dhe bashkimi Ju lutemi shkarkoni...
Purposefulness in public procurement in BiH
Purposeful public procurement can be considered to be a public procurement that, with timely and rational planning and implementation...
Competition in public procurement
As a signatory to the Stabilisation and Association Agreement (SAA) with the European Union (EU), Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH)...
The new enlargement methodolology: an obstacle or a motivaiton
In EU circles in Brussels as well as in the member states, for years there have been talks about...
Disputed Yet Invaluable Leadership Germany’s Role in Macedonia’s Euro-Atlantic Integration
The Agreement on Macedonia’s Name and Beyond: A Geopolitical Perspective
Referendum in Focus: The End of North Macedonia’s Path to EU and NATO Membership or Just the End of the Road?
North Macedonia’s Accession to the EU: Merits, Benefits, and Implications
Strategic Planning and Public Policy Making: An Unsolved Rubik’s Cube
University Autonomy in Macedonian Higher Education
Authors: Maja Stevanović, Zoran Velkovski, Vlatko P. Korobar, Elena Džukeska, Neda Zdraveva
THE GREATER EUROPE
Albania and Kosovo consider membership in the European Union as a strategic objective of their societies. Despite being at...
The future of EU-Kosovo relations after the 2019 European elections
Every five years, the European Union makes radical changes to its leadership structures of key institutions. This period also...
Legal Challenges Facing the Special Public Prosecutor’s Office
The Macedonian Name Agreement and Its Aftermath: A Geopolitical Perspective
Please download the material in English and Macedonian.
Macedonia’s Path Towards the EU and NATO and the Regional Implications
Please download the material in English and Macedonian.
Lack of Engagement: Surveying the spectrum of EU member state policies towards Kosovo
Kosovo’s declaration of independence, in February 2008, resulted in a deep division within the European Union. While 23 members...
United Nations Human Rights Bodies and Their Observations and Recommendations for the Republic of Macedonia
Defining the Concept of ‘Public Interest’ – Analysis and Critical Review of ‘Public Interest’ in the Macedonian Legal and Political Context
Implementation of the Decisions of the European Court of Human Rights in the Period 2013-2016
Challenges and Opportunities for Scientific Research Funding in The Republic of Macedonia
Authors: Prof. Snezana Bilik, PhD; Prof. Emilija Simoska, PhD; Valentin Fetadjokoski; IrenaCvetkovik, MA; Sanja Spasova, MSc; Elena Ancevska, MA;...
Report on Implementation of The Law on Free Legal Aid in 2016-2017
Please download the material in English and Macedonian.
Open Society Foundation for Albania presents the “Analysis of the 2017 Draft Budget” and the “Monitoring of Budgeting for Integration Priorities in the 2017 Draft Budget.”
Continuing the long-standing tradition of monitoring the state budget, the Open Society Foundation for Albania has supported a group...
Building a Scaffolding
Please download the material in English. [Albanian]Ngritja e skelës Ju lutem shkarkoni materialin në shqip.
The Upshot of the SAA: Kosovo-EU Relations
Please download the material in English. [Albanian]Çfarë pas MSA në raportet Kosovë-BE Ju lutem shkarkoni materialin në shqip.
Analysis of the 2016 Draft Budget and Monitoring of Integration Priorities in the 2016 Draft Budget (Albania)
Continuing the long-standing tradition of monitoring the state budget, the Open Society Foundation for Albania – Soros has again...
Kosovo’s Trade with the European Union: Looking beyond the Stabilisation and Association Agreement
Please download the material in English. [Albanian]Marrëdhëniet Tregtare mes Kosovës dhe Bashkimit Evropian – Shikim përtej Marrëveshjes për Stabilizim...
The national survey on perceptions and expectations regarding Albania’s potential membership in the EU.
Since June 2014, Albania has been officially recognized as a candidate country for membership in the European Union. Enhancing...
Employee Rights (Legal Framework), Safety at Work and Implementation Mechanisms
Progres on Asset Declaration and Public Procurement Policies
Brief Situation Analysis of the Education Sector in Kosovo
Fight against Corruption and Organized Crime
Proposal New draft law for the work of the Assembly in the process of Albania’s integration into the European Union
So far, the process of European integration has been considered more of a “closed dossier” between Brussels and the...
Essential Formality or Formal Essence: EU Agenda in the Government’s Programme 2014-2018
Please download the material in English and Macedonian.
Open Society Foundation for Albania presents the Analysis of the 2014 Draft Budget, the Role of the Assembly in its review and approval process, and the budgeting of integration priorities in the 2014 Draft Budget
The Open Society Foundation for Albania, as part of the “Public Finance Monitoring” program, has prepared the following three...
Citizens and local government (BOS)
A small guide through local self-government – intended for representatives of local self-governments, presidents and members of local community...
The Tragedy of the European Union and How to Resolve It
Analysis of The Implementation of The Law on Free Legal Aid 2010 – 2012
Please download the material in English and Macedonian.
The Open Society Foundation for Albania presents the Citizen Monitoring Report on the Action Plan for Addressing the 12 Priorities of the European Commission – 2012
Over the past 12 months, efforts and achievements towards fulfilling the 12 European Commission Priorities for Albania have more...
Kosovo Calling
[Albanian]Kosova Thërret Please download the material in English and Albanian.
The Open Society Foundation for Albania presents the recommendations for Priorities 1-4 in the framework of the drafting of the Action Plan for Addressing the 12 Priorities
On February 15, 2012, the Open Society Foundation for Albania participated in the hearing with civil society organized by...
The monitoring report on the implementation of the 12 EU recommendations for Albania is presented
On Thursday, September 29, 2011, at the Sheraton Hotel, the Open Society Foundation for Albania, Soros, organized a press...
The European Movement in Albania publishes the second issue of the magazine “EuroSpeak”
As part of a project funded by the Open Society Foundation for Albania (OSFA), the European Movement in Albania...
The impact of visa-free movement in the Schengen area on Albanian citizens
On April 27, 2011, the European Movement in Albania (EMA) organized a conference on “The Impact of Visa-Free Movement...
Thessaloniki 2014: In search of reaffirming the credibility of the EU enlargement process
EMA has the pleasure to share with you the policy paper entitled: “Thessaloniki 2014: In quest of a renewed...
Report on the state of citizen participation in decision-making processes in BiH in 2009
The aim of the research is to assess the state of citizen participation in decision-making processes in BiH during...
Report on the Status of Citizen Participation in Decision-Making in BiH for 2008
The aim of the research is to assess the state of citizen participation in decision-making processes in BiH during...
Report on Citizen Participation in Decision-Making in BiH in 2006
The aim of the research is to assess the state of citizen participation in decision-making processes in BiH during...
Learning Law
Authors: Darko Janevski, Neda Korunovska, Nada Naumovska, Kiril Nejkov, Sanja Bogatinovska, Kire Milovski, Aco Trcoski, Liljana Sekerinska
Analysis of the state of local government and self-government in BiH, 2005
“Analysis of the State of Local Government and Self-Government in BiH” was created as a result of the first...
News on this thematic area
Civil Society & Think Tank Forum 2026 preparations kick off ahead of the main event in October
The first preparatory meeting bringing together organizers and partners contributing to the Civil Society and Think Tank Forum 2026...
EU–Western Balkans Civil Society High-Level Conference: Trust and Partnership at the Heart of EU Enlargement
The EU–Western Balkans Civil Society High-Level Conference in Vienna gathered over 110 participants to strengthen trust, civic engagement, and...
The Theory of Change: What Method Can Bring the Western Balkans into the EU?
InCLUDE Podcast · Episode 1 · 7 April 2026 The Istituto Affari Internazionali (IAI) in Rome introduced InCLUDE, a...
Echoes of Democracy Political School Launches in Skopje, Shaping the Region’s European Future
The first module of the Echoes of Democracy Political School convened regional and international experts, policymakers, and researchers in...
Civil Society Organisations Launch New Cooperation on Transport Policy in Western Balkans
BELGRADE– Civil society organizations from across the Western Balkans gathered in Belgrade on 16 March 2026 to launch a...
Gen Z Kitchen Festival in Brussels amplifies Western Balkans youth voices
Young people across the Western Balkans remain deeply committed to democracy and the European future of their region, yet...
Ignita Forum 2025: Civil Society Redefines Western Balkans Integration from Within
Three days of dialogue in Prizren focused on how evidence, youth and civic engagement can inform Europe’s ongoing integration...
Ignita Forum 2025: On the Edge Opens Dialogue on Europe’s Future from the Western Balkan
Ignita Forum 2025 launches in Prizren as a new platform connecting civil society, policymakers and youth around EU integration,...
Western Balkan Civil Society Strengthens Its Engagement in Transport Policy and Projects
CSOs from Western Balkans and the EU gathered in Brussels to advance their role in shaping transport policy and...
Western Balkans Energy at EFA: From Listening to Shaping
At the European Forum Alpbach, a Serbian scholarship holder shows how Western Balkans clubs turn conversations into cross-border energy...
“Alpbach is what you make of it”: A Kosovo Q&A
We spoke with Dina Ukiqi from Kosovo about belonging on equal terms at EFA, the role of WB clubs...
Between the Seat and the Menu: A Kosovo Voice at EFA
by Rea Gashi, Club Alpbach Kosovo A Kosovo scholarship holder, Rea Gashi, reflects on EFA from a non-EU perspective:...
Opening the International Doors
by Sanja Mancheva, Club Alpbach Macedonia Board Member Sanja Mancheva’s experience at the European Forum Alpbach gave her the...
Ukraine Looks to Albania’s EU Journey in Tirana Exchange
A high-level Ukrainian delegation visited Tirana to learn from Albania’s EU accession reforms in a mission co-organized by OSF-WB...
STARforums: Future of Work for Gen Z in the Western Balkans
STARforums across five Western Balkan cities united 200+ stakeholders to tackle youth employment challenges and launch the STAR.study platform,...
Harvard Students Explore EU Integration in Western Balkans
Harvard Students Experience the Western Balkans: Diplomacy, Innovation and Cultural Bridges on Balkan Trek 2025 In May 2025, 55...
Why the EU must integrate the Western Balkans into its cybersecurity agency?
The Western Balkans are not on the sidelines of the EU’s digital periphery; they are in the middle of...
OSF-WB Alumni Connecting Leaders Across the Balkan
The Open Society Foundations – Western Balkans Alumni Network is more than just a gathering of past collaborators. It...
Western Balkans Prioritize Innovation to Power EU Integration
Over 50 key voices from the region and the EU are putting research, innovation and mobility at the heart...
Shrinking Civic Space & Mounting Pressure in the Western Balkans
Decreased funding and authoritarian pressure threaten civic space in the Western Balkans Sarajevo, 29 May 2025 – Civil society...
Western Balkans Seen as Key to EU Strategic Defence Autonomy
Integrating the Western Balkans into the EU’s Security and Defence Policy Framework Brussels, 23 May 2025 – The Western...
EU Urged to Boost Western Balkans Role in Cybersecurity and Digital Policy
At a high-level roundtable in Brussels, civil society and policy leaders called for granting WB6 observer status in ENISA...
Green Infrastructure: A Strategic Imperative for the Western Balkans
A high-level regional conference in Skopje highlights how sustainable infrastructure is essential for EU integration, climate resilience, and economic...
10th Western Balkans Civil Society Forum: Accelerating Socio-Economic Convergence with the EU for a Better Life
The European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) launched its 10th Western Balkans Civil Society Forum today in Budva, Montenegro,...
Regional Security in the Western Balkans: New Report Calls for Coordinated Action
Presented in a live webinar, experts outlined a strategic path forward from the latest ASCEND-WB6 publication that addresses the...
Balkans in Brussels: Igniting Hope
The Open Society Foundations—Western Balkans (OSF-WB) hosted “Balkans in Brussels: Igniting Hope,” an informal networking event that brought together...
Western Balkans Civil Society Policy Dialogues in Brussels
The high-level event Western Balkans Civil Society Policy Dialogues in Brussels: How Do We Get to Enlargement That Delivers...
Western Balkans’ Economies Discussed at High-Level Conference in Tirana
Tirana, Albania, October 24-25, 2024 – The international conference “Western Balkans Economies in the Context of EU Integration: Implications...
Belgrade Security Conference 2024: The Western Balkans and the Future of the Single Market
Open Society Foundations – Western Balkans had the privilege to host the panel “A ‘Growth Plan’ for the EU?...
Solidarity in Images: ‘Ukraine: Love+War’ Exhibition in Belgrade Highlights Human Resilience
The exhibition “UKRAINE: LOVE + WAR (2014-2024)” was officially opened in the European House in Belgrade, in presence of...
Challenges of Open Data and Digitalization in the Western Balkans
A new report on “Current State of Open Data and Digitalization in the Western Balkans” launched in Sarajevo by...
Tackling emerging cybersecurity threats in the Western Balkans
Tirana, September 3, 2024 – The Open Society Foundations – Western Balkans (OSF-WB) under the Ignita Initiative, supported a...
Chat: “‘Hip Hope” – Reimagining the Future in the Balkans”
Alpbach, August 25, 2024 – The Open Society Foundations – Western Balkans (OSF-WB), in partnership with the ERSTE Foundation,...
Balkans Convene in Alpbach
August 23-24, 2024 – The Open Society Foundations – Western Balkans (OSF-WB) hosted “Balkans Convene: Pathways to Progress,” reception after a series...
Lab: “Future Crafting the Balkans: From Hope to Action”
Alpbach, August 23-24, 2024 – The Open Society Foundations – Western Balkans (OSF-WB), in collaboration with ERSTE Foundation, convened...
Networking Event with Western Balkans EFA Scholarship Holders
Alpbach, August 22, 2024 – The Open Society Foundations – Western Balkans (OSF-WB) hosted an exciting networking event during...
’20 Days in Mariupol’ screens in Skopje
On June 27, the Oscar-winning documentary “20 Days in Mariupol” was screened at the Museum of Contemporary Art in...
Networking European Civic Education Prep Lab comes to Tirana
Between 18 and 19 June, the NECE Prep Lab took place in Tirana, as an official part of the...
Civil Society High Level Conference: Growth Plan for the Western Balkans
Marking 20 years since the largest EU enlargement and Slovenia’s EU membership, the Civil Society High Level Conference on...
Balkan Trek: 50 Harvard students visit the Western Balkans
From May 10th until May 19th 50 graduate students from Harvard visited the Western Balkans as participants of the...
Albania and the Western Balkans in the EU by 2030
The Belgrade Centre for Security Policy (BCSP) and the Balkan Center for Constructive Policies – Solution in cooperation with...
RYLMP Concludes Successfully Second Mobility Program in Tirana
40 fellows from this year’s cohort, hailing from Serbia, North Macedonia, and Albania, gathered in Tirana to conclude their...
‘20 Days in Mariupol’ screening in Prishtina
On April 30, with the support of the Open Society Foundations – Western Balkans and the FotoEvidence Association, the...
Oscar-Winning Documentary “20 Days in Mariupol” Premieres in Albania
Over 100 photojournalists, artists, media professionals, activists, members of the international community, representatives of the Albanian government, and members...
What does hope look like for the Balkans?
Vienna, February 26-27, 2024 – The Open Society Foundations – Western Balkans (OSF-WB), in collaboration with the ERSTE Foundation,...
OSF-WB & FotoEvidence Host Powerful Exhibition on the War in Ukraine in Tirana
Over 150 photojournalists, artists, media professionals, activists, members of the international community, representatives of the Albanian government, and members...
OSF-WB and RBF host third Balkans donor forum
Returning to the joint platform for the first time since 2019, over 150 stakeholders discussed priorities and approaches of...
Accountability and transparency at the heart of the Berlin Process
Representatives from civil society, media, and parliamentarians from the Western Balkans and EU Member States discuss innovative approaches, mechanisms,...
Greening the Western Balkans towards Sustainability and EU Accession
Collaborative action and investment in sustainable infrastructure, environmental protection, and governance reforms can foster a more sustainable and environmentally...
Access to the single market is a two-way highway
Regional economic institutions discuss the challenges and possibilities of economic convergence between Western Balkans and the European Union, while...
Barriers to regional security cooperation in the Western Balkans
Albanian and Kosovo interior ministers highlight Kosovo’s security threats, as experts call for reconciliation and deeper cooperation on cyber...
Deeper economic integration of the Western Balkans to the European Union – When, how and how much?
As part of hosting the Thematic Focus Group (TWG) Access to Single Market, one of the seven TWGs of...
A Double Challenge: The Green Agenda for the Western Balkans
The Institute for Good Governance and Policies in Environment and Climate Change – Skopje (IPECC), in cooperation with the...
Mobility-Driven Innovation and Knowledge Transfer in the Western Balkans
On September 28, 2023, SCiDEV organized the public event in hybrid format in Tirana bringing together civil society organizations...
SCiDEV’s Contribution to the 7th Joint Science Conference of the Berlin Process
The Center Science and Innovation for Development (SCiDEV) was engaged with the 7th Joint Science Conference of the Berlin...
Fourth Consultation Meeting: Strengthening Research and Innovation Collaboration at regional and EU level
The Thematic Working Group on “Advancing Inclusive Regional Mobility and Catalyzing Mobility-Driven Innovation and Knowledge Transfer in Western Balkans”...
Academic Integration into the European Higher Education and Research
The Thematic Working Group on “Advancing Inclusive Regional Mobility and Catalyzing Mobility-Driven Innovation and Knowledge Transfer in Western Balkans”...
Online meeting of the Thematic Working Group “Energy and Green Transition”
The first online meeting of the Thematic Working Group, “Energy,” was held, and 25 participants attended. The main task...
Macedonia: Climate and Green Agenda within the Berlin Process
As part of the advocacy activities supporting the Civil Society Forum (CSF) objectives, on 20 July 2023, representatives of...
Second Consultation Meeting: Enhancing Mobility-Driven Innovation and Engaging and Mobilizing the Diaspora
The Thematic Working Group (TWG) on “Advancing Inclusive Regional Mobility and Catalyzing Mobility-Driven Innovation and Knowledge Transfer in Western...
Malign Foreign Influence in the Western Balkans
In the framework of the 2023 Tirana Civil Society and Think Tank Forum (CSF) of the Berlin Process Summit...
Consultation meeting of the thematic working group “Politics of Enlargement”, led by ELIAMEP
The 2nd online meeting of the “Politics of Enlargement” group, led by ELIAMEP, took place in preparation for this...
Advancing Inclusive Regional Mobility and Catalyzing Mobility-Driven Innovation and Knowledge Transfer in Western Balkans – Insights from First Consultation Meeting
The first consultation session of the Thematic Working Group (TWG) on “Advancing Inclusive Regional Mobility and Catalyzing Mobility-Driven Innovation...
Access to Single Market – Liberalization and integration of the Western Balkans to the European Markets
The TWG Access to the European Single Market held its third consultation event on June 30, during which the...
Access to Single Market – Liberalization and integration of the Western Balkans to the European Markets
The TWG Access to the European Single Market held its third consultation event on June 30, during which the...
“Politics of Enlargement” 1st meeting led by ELIAMEP
The first online meeting of the “Politics of Enlargement” thematic group, led by ELIAMEP, took place on 28 June...
Access to European Single Market – Access to European Funds
The TWG Access to the European Single Market held its second consultation event on June 30. At this event,...
Access to European Single Market – Participation in the European Semester
The first consultation event of the TWG Access to the European Single Market was focused on fiscal and economic...
