Today, the second phase of the WBF–EU Joint Action concludes successfully, adding 42 new grants, over 200 benefiting organizations, and over 20,000 direct beneficiaries to the growing story of WBF–EU cooperation.
But most importantly, we are proud to announce that as of today, a new third phase of the WBF–EU Joint Action has officially started and will continue to boost regional cooperation in crucial areas over the next two years.
This moment is not only a transition from one phase to another. It is a clear signal of confidence and strong partnership in action!.
We are proud of the trust gained from the European Union, demonstrated through its continued support to the Western Balkans Fund via a new tranche of EU assistance under the Joint Action, reaffirming a shared belief that the Western Balkans moves forward faster when cooperation is not an exception, but a habit.
Together, we are writing a success story of regional cooperation built from the ground up, powered by civil society, and aligned with Europe’s values and standards.
Since 2021, the WBF–EU Joint Action has delivered far more than numbers:
- It has enhanced the mobility and people to people links in our region
- it has connected organizations that had never worked together before
- it has helped civil society turn ideas into results
- it has strengthened networks that will outlast the duration of any single grant cycle
- and it has translated “regional cooperation” into visible impact for communities
The Second Phase will be remembered for introducing flagship initiatives that raised ambition and capacity across the region, such as:
Regional Networking and Dialogue Sessions, spearheaded across the Western Balkans to connect actors, exchange practices, and create durable partnerships
Regional Impact Lab, an initiative that enhanced the skills, tools, and operational readiness of CSOs, helping them become stronger and more sustainable drivers of change
As we enter the Third Phase, we do so with clarity and responsibility: to expand opportunities, deepen cooperation, and ensure that regional initiatives deliver measurable outcomes, not just good intentions.
We look forward to building on what has been achieved, widening the circle of beneficiaries, and continuing to support partnerships that move the region closer to European standards, stronger governance, and deeper societal resilience.
We move into the next phase with renewed energy, stronger partnerships, and one clear commitment: to keep turning regional cooperation into practical results, visible impact, and lasting change
