Exchange with the European Fund for the Balkans (EFB)

On 4 March 2026, the IDM hosted an exchange with Veton Zekolli, Executive Director of the European Fund for the Balkans (EFB), an initiative dedicated to strengthening democracy, fostering regional cooperation, and supporting the European integration of the Western Balkans. He was joined by Samir Beharic, who leads the Balkans in Europe Policy and Advocacy Group (BiEPAG), and Ivan Blažević, who leads the Engaged Democracy Initiative (EDI) programme. Founded in 2008 by several European foundations, the EFB works to connect civil society, policymakers, and experts across the region while contributing to debates on Europe’s future. 

The meeting offered an opportunity to learn more about the European Fund for the Balkans’ programmes and initiatives, as well as to exchange perspectives on developments in the Western Balkans and Southeast Europe. Together, we identified shared interests and possible joint initiatives aimed at strengthening dialogue, supporting democratic development, and advancing the region’s European integration.