What do we do?

What are the thematic discussions?

The main format of the Balkan Dialogues activities so far were the round-table thematic discussions based on the principles of Chatham House, gathering high-level decision makers, as well as opinion and policy makers from the Western Balkans region, and a selected number of policy and opinion makers from the European Union institutions and member countries, and the USA. Every Balkan Dialogues round table thus far has been organized in a different country with the idea of organizing events in the Western Balkans region as well as prominent European capitals. Each event has gathered more than 50 participants of which the majority has always been from the Western Balkans, with more than 200 high level decision and policy makers taking part in the events in total.

What is the EU ETS?

The Western Balkans and EU ETS is a program aimed at facilitating the gradual integration of Western Balkans countries into the European Union in crucial areas, particularly energy supply and security. The program’s specific objective is to endorse and assist the accession of WB countries to the EU Emissions Trading System (EU ETS).

The integration of the Western Balkans into the EU ETS aims to facilitate accession to a key mechanism of EU climate policy, fostering new investments in regional energy transition. This initiative provides a comprehensive and straightforward response to complex energy supply crises, aiming to advance sustainable energy development in the region. By addressing issues such as energy poverty, governance challenges, and air pollution, it not only promotes economic growth but also enhances regional cooperation and integration into the EU.