Brussels, 20 March 2025 – Press Club, Rue Froissart | 18:30 – 20:00 CET
Serbia is undergoing a period of profound political instability, with nationwide protests escalating in response to governance challenges, democratic backsliding, and the broader political crisis. The tragic events in Novi Sad in 2024 acted as a catalyst for student-led demonstrations, highlighting the urgent need for democratic reforms and greater government accountability. These developments are not isolated; their impact resonates across the Western Balkans, influencing both regional stability and Serbia’s trajectory toward EU integration.
Recognising the significance of these developments, ALDA – the European Association for Local Democracy is convening a high-level discussion in Brussels, bringing together key stakeholders, policymakers, and civil society representatives. This ALDA Balkans Talks event will assess the latest updates from Serbia, explore the wider regional implications, and discuss how civic engagement can drive democratic resilience and EU accession efforts.
For the past 30 years, ALDA has played a pivotal role in strengthening local democracy in the Balkans, beginning with the establishment of the first Local Democracy Agency (LDA) in Subotica, Serbia, in 1993. With its extensive experience in fostering participatory democracy, ALDA is committed to promoting civic engagement and ensuring that democratic principles remain at the forefront of regional developments.
Spotlight on Civic Engagement and Participatory Democracy
The discussion will place particular emphasis on the role of civil society organisations in navigating Serbia’s current crisis. Transparency, dialogue, and participatory governance are essential tools for ensuring that democratic principles are upheld.
In this context, ALDA will present two key initiatives aimed at bolstering local democracy in the Western Balkans:
- Shared Horizons – A project designed to support democratic engagement among youth and civil society actors.
- BOOST – A regional initiative focused on strengthening local governance and cross-border cooperation to enhance democratic resilience.
The event will feature contributions from high-profile speakers, providing diverse perspectives on the situation in Serbia and the broader Balkan region. Key participants will include Nataša Vučković, President of ALDA and Director of the Center for Democracy Foundation, Serbia, alongside representatives from the European Commission and the European Parliament.
Speakers:
- Nataša Vučković, President of ALDA, Director of the Center for Democracy Foundation, Serbia
- Representative from the Cabinet of Marta Kos, European Commissioner for Enlargement and Neighbourhood (tbc)
- Antonella Valmorbida, Secretary General of ALDA
- Tonino Picula, MEP (tbc)
- Local elected representative
Moderator:
- Adrien Licha, European Association for Local Democracy
This discussion will offer valuable insights into the evolving political landscape in Serbia and its regional repercussions. Join us in shaping the conversation on democracy, civic participation, and EU integration in the Balkans.
You can find the full Agenda here.
📅 Register here to attend.