Recent Developments | Update from the Western Balkans Info Hub
The Western Balkans region continues to make strides toward closer integration with the European Union’s research and innovation frameworks. Building on significant milestones from the past year, the POLICY ANSWERS project has supported the development of the region with the strategic tools and resources necessary to align with European R&D standards and priorities.
This commitment was renewed at the most recent Ministerial Meeting of the Steering Platforms on Education and Training, Research and Innovation, and Culture. Held in Skopje in Autumn 2024, this gathering united EC high officials and Western Balkan ministers, highlighting their shared focus on fostering regional innovation, research capacity, and cross-border cooperation.
Preparing for Horizon Europe’s Successor
Looking ahead, the region is gearing up for the transition to Framework Programme 10 (FP10), the next iteration of the EU’s flagship research programme. POLICY ANSWERS launched The Western Balkans on the Road to FP10, which outlines clear steps for improving research structures and enhancing collaboration across borders. By addressing these priorities, the region aims to align its research and innovation systems with European standards, creating a more integrated and competitive R&D environment.
Turning Data into Action
To ensure policies are informed by robust data, the project has released the 2023 ERA Country Reports, which offer an in-depth analysis of the R&D landscape in each Western Balkans’ economy. These reports identify local strengths, areas for development, and actionable insights tailored to policymakers' needs.
In addition, the 2024 Monitoring Cards on the Western Balkans Agenda provide a practical framework for tracking progress in key areas like Digital Transformation, Green Transition, and Innovation. These cards also spotlight the development of Smart Specialisation Strategies (S3), designed to foster talent retention and promote synergies between regional and EU-level R&D efforts.
Boosting Grassroots Innovation
At the grassroots level, the project’s Innovation Voucher scheme continues to empower small and medium enterprises (SMEs) by funding partnerships with higher education institutions. This direct support helps SMEs drive innovation and development projects aligned with both EU and regional priorities. The scheme’s success underpins broader efforts to establish Digital Innovation Hubs across the region, with plans to integrate these hubs into the EU Digital Innovation Hub network by 2025.
Balancing Digital Growth and Sustainability
Complementing these initiatives, the project has also published thematic briefs on Digital Transformation and Green Transition, offering practical strategies to tackle emerging challenges. These resources are helping policymakers and stakeholders balance technological innovation with environmental sustainability, ensuring the region’s long-term competitiveness while addressing pressing global concerns.
A Vision for the Future
The POLICY ANSWERS project continues to deliver on its mission to provide a cohesive, action-oriented roadmap for the Western Balkans’ integration into Europe’s innovation ecosystem. By bridging local priorities with EU objectives, the project is laying the groundwork for a future where the Western Balkans can play a central role in shaping Europe’s research and innovation landscape.
The key outcomes of the project are outlined in the "Main Achievements of the POLICY ANSWERS Project" e-book. The document highlights innovative methodologies designed to foster social inclusion and community empowerment, alongside the use of digital tools to enhance the impact of activities.
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