EESC President

The 10th Western Balkans Civil Society Forum, held in Budva and hosted by the EESC, reaffirmed the central role of civil society in the EU enlargement process. Montenegro’s hosting of the Forum signalled its ambition to lead the region as a frontrunner, aiming to close all negotiation chapters by 2026 and join the EU by 2028. The Forum focused on the Growth Plan for the Western Balkans, implementation of the European Pillar of Social Rights, and the future of civic space and social dialogue.

EESC President Oliver Röpke opened his mission to Montenegro by encouraging the country’s ambition to join the EU by 2028 and close all negotiation chapters by 2026. In a meeting with Montenegrin Prime Minister Milojko Spajić and other high-level officials in Podgorica, the President reinforced the EESC’s strong support for Montenegro’s frontrunner role in the enlargement process and its efforts to strengthen democratic dialogue and reform.

The European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) launched its 10th Western Balkans Civil Society Forum today in Budva, Montenegro, gathering over 100 participants to discuss how to accelerate socio-economic convergence with the EU for improved living standards across the region. The two-day Forum, 13-14 May is taking place in Budva, Montenegro, to support Montenegro's ambition to become the next EU Member State by 2028 and to serve as a model for the rest of the region.