On February 18, 2025, the Shared Horizons Project – Component 2 held a key event in Podgorica, Montenegro, aimed at advancing regional cooperation and community development through cultural heritage. The meeting brought together regional experts on cultural heritage and storytelling as well as representatives from the Podgorica Municipality and the French Embassy in Montenegro. This three-day event marked the launch of the Cultural Component of the Shared Horizons Project, an initiative coordinated by ALDA and funded by Expertise France.

Focused on engaging youth, promoting dialogue and enhancing accessibility to cultural heritage, Shared Horizons – Component 2 is designed to foster cooperation, unity and progress throughout the Western Balkans.

Bridges of Reconciliation: Promoting Unity and Cultural Exchange in the Western Balkans

Shared Horizons – Component 2 is an initiative that features historic bridges as symbols of reconciliation and regional unity across six Western Balkan countries. Focusing on Gorica Bridge (Albania), Stari Most (Bosnia and Herzegovina), Stone Bridge (Kosovo and North Macedonia), Adž-Pasha’s Bridge (Montenegro) and White Bridge (Serbia), the project aims to engage young people in activities like storytelling, photography and digital heritage preservation. They also include workshops, exhibitions, open days and a final event in Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina). By fostering intercultural dialogue and strengthening community ties, Shared Horizons – Component 2 plays a crucial role in promoting unity and cultural exchange in the region.

Panel Discussion on Cultural Heritage

The launch event featured a panel discussion titled “Shared Cultural Heritage, Reconciliation and Regional Development.” It brought together prominent figures, including H.E. Ms. Anne-Marie Maskay, Ambassador of France in Montenegro; Ms. Nađa Ljiljanić, Deputy Mayor of Podgorica; Mr. Paul-Alexis Berthezene, Project Manager from Expertise France; Mr. Maurizio Camin, Vice President of ALDA; and Mr. Dejan Ubovic from the Museum of the 90s. Moderated by Ms. Antonella Valmorbida, ALDA Secretary General, the panel delved into the role of cultural heritage as a tool for fostering unity within a historically divided region. The speakers examined the challenges of heritage preservation, the impact of digital storytelling on collective memory and the importance of engaging young people in cultural initiatives. They also shared insights on how heritage sites can become platforms for dialogue and education, emphasising that history should not be seen as a source of division, but rather as a foundation for reconciliation and cooperation.

Engaging Experts in Strategies for Preserving Heritage and Empowering Youth

Following the panel, the event continued with a dedicated session presenting regional experts in cultural heritage and storytelling. It provided a platform for exchanging best practices and strategies, focused on preserving shared cultural landmarks and ensuring the engagement of young people in the activities. The experts discussed the importance of digital storytelling, youth engagement and innovative approaches to heritage conservation, while also developing plans for future activities under Component 2. With its ambitious scope and clear vision, the Shared Horizons Project is poised to leave a lasting impact on the region, proving that bridges are more than just physical structures—they are powerful symbols of connection, history and a shared future.