Reflection Group

Although it is clear that many of political, economic and social challenges facing the WB at the moment are not unique to the region itself, but global, what is even clearer is that all countries from the region would certainly greatly benefit from new voices which will present a fresh perspective, unique situation analysis and possible recommendations on the path forward – country by country, as well as for the region as a whole. Most importantly, voices that will primarily come from the region itself and would take and include input from internationally renowned policy makers and prominent individuals in an advisory capacity. In response to these needs, the European Fund for the Balkans has launched the Reflection Group, a new initiative which brings together young but accomplished individuals from throughout the Western Balkans, coming from a variety of fields and expertise, with the goal of analyzing and contributing toward the regional political, economic and social policy making processes. The selected leaders will meet with experienced politicians, academics and activists to receive their input on different chosen focus areas and thereafter use those inputs, as well as their respective knowledge and expertise to produce a written policy analysis and recommendations. In addition, the group will be active throughout the region by participating, speaking and sharing the views of the Reflection Group in different public events, discussions and debates. In the period July 16 -25, a study and networking visit will be organized for the group in Vienna, hosted by the Institute for Human Sciences, with the primary purpose of identifying the issues of concern that would be the focus of the work of the Reflection Group.