Regional Ownership of Our Tomorrow: Citizens and Civil Society Growing EU Values in the Western Balkans

forthcoming

Western Balkans and promote democratic participation, civic rights, and EU values through cross-border cooperation and active citizens’ involvement that fosters the enabling environment for civil society. Focusing on the CERV program's priority of promoting Union values and fostering debate on the future of Europe, the project will directly involve citizens from diverse backgrounds, age groups, and communities in shaping a more inclusive and democratic European future. Project activities will encourage public reflection, debates, and hands-on participation in democratic processes. Moreover, it will strengthen civil society organizations (CSOs), engage youth, women, and underrepresented groups, and build lasting regional networks combining trainings, local and regional democracy labs, public campaigns, EU policy discussions, and dialogue with decision-makers. The project will place special attention on ensuring that all voices contribute to decision-making processes. Citizens will contribute to shaping EU policies through structured “EU Policy Labs,” and results will be shared at the regional and EU level. Project ROOT WB reinforces citizens' sense of ownership, belonging, and responsibility for European democratic values by promoting civic dialogue and active citizenship, and helps people across the Western Balkans feel more connected to the EU and its values. The project strongly supports a shared European future that is ROOTed in freedom, equality, rule of law, solidarity, and respect for human rights.