The regional capacity-building and networking initiative held in Belgrade on 25 -27 March 2025, brought together representatives of civil society organisations, local democracy actors, institutional stakeholders and experts from across the Western Balkans and beyond, with the scope to strengthen institutional capacities and support good governance and European integration processes in the region.
The three-day programme, which combined coordination meetings, training sessions, thematic workshops and a public panel discussion, organised by ALDA Western Balkans. Participants concentrated on enhancing project implementation skills, fostering cross-border cooperation and reinforcing the role of civil society and local authorities in democratic reform processes.
The programme addressed a range of thematic areas, including project cycle management, communication and visibility, youth and entrepreneurship, rural development, environmental sustainability, cultural heritage and citizen participation, alongside gender-sensitive approaches to project implementation. Sessions combined analytical input with practical tools to support participants in applying knowledge at a local level.
A public panel discussion on civil society as a driver of EU accession provided a platform for exchange among civil society representatives, institutions and international partners on participatory governance, regional cooperation and democratic transformation in the Western Balkans.
“Strong institutional capacity and good governance are crucial for democratic stability, security and European integration. Good governance requires transparent and accountable institutions, multi-level cooperation and inclusive policymaking rooted in democratic values, the rule of law and human rights. In this context, local authorities play a key role in addressing grassroots challenges and engaging citizens.
The CEI serves as a platform for promoting institutional development and governance. Cooperation with regional partners enhances these efforts, with the aim of accelerating modernisation and institutional transformation through transparent frameworks and inclusive policymaking.”
By fostering institutional development, peer learning and cooperation with regional partners, the initiative contributed to strengthening inclusive governance practices and reinforcing democratic values across the region.
For more info: poli@cei.int
