In this episode of Balkan Echoes, host Simona Bishkoska is joined by Simona Paskoska, Matea Kargovska, and Kristijan Trajcov — three emerging journalists from North Macedonia.

They reflect on their four-day Media4EU study visit in Vicenza. From interactive workshops and media exchanges to behind-the-scenes tours of local newsrooms, the experience offered a deep dive into European media practices and collaborative learning.


Make sure to listen in as our guests speak about the real impact of hands-on learning, mentorship, and a chance to upgrade skills. Their advice to the young journalists everywhere? Be patient, follow your heart and follow the rules!


This discussion is part of the Media4EU project, implemented by Eurothink in association with ALDA and BIRC. The initiative aims to strengthen journalistic standards in North Macedonia, combat disinformation, and support the country's EU integration journey.

In this episode of Balkan Echoes, join your host Simona Bishkoska with guests Gabriela Dimovska from Centre for Social Development- CSD Impact and Art Spahiu from Organised Youth Association-OYA, as they explore how young people engage with European integration processes and how media can better support their democratic participation.

Make sure to listen in as our guests share insights on reaching younger demographics, the role of social media in political engagement, and practical ways to make EU topics more accessible and relevant to youth audiences.

This discussion is part of the Media4EU project, implemented by Eurothink, in association with ALDA and BIRC. The initiative aims to strengthen journalistic standards in North Macedonia, combat disinformation, and support the country's EU integration journey.

In this episode of Balkan Echoes, discover the new project "Shared Horizons", Component 2.

Join your host, Simona Bishkoska and guests Project Manager Viktorija Postolovska from ALDA Balkans and Project Coordinator Paul Berthezene from Expertise France as they discuss how this innovative initiative empowers youth to rediscover their shared cultural heritage.

Learn how photography, storytelling, and research on historic bridges are helping young people from six different Western Balkan countries abandon divisive narratives and build new connections. This episode offers valuable insights into how the next generation is reframing regional identity beyond conflict toward a future of collaboration. 

This project is funded by Expertise France.

In this episode of Balkan Echoes, discover the new regional sub-granting programme of Project BOOST. 

Join host Simona Bishkoska, with Project Manager Maja Varoshlija and Grant Manager Marina Terpovska as they share the exciting funding opportunity for civil society organizations across the Western Balkans.

This episode delivers crucial insights into the application process, eligibility criteria, and the benefits of the programme. Whether you're a seasoned NGO or new to the civil society sector, you'll learn about networking opportunities, cross-cutting priorities, and the long-term benefits that extend far beyond financial support.

To discover more visit: https://boostbalkans.com/

This project is funded by the Agence Française de Développement (AFD)

In this episode of Balkan Echoes, join your host Simona Bishkoska, with special guest Professor Lazar Jovevski, from the Law Faculty of the Ss. Cyril and Methodius University in Skopje, as they dive into the crucial role of labour law reforms in North Macedonia.
As a part of the project Media4EU they uncover the challenges, opportunities, and transformative impact of EU-funded projects.

The Media for EU project is led by Eurothink – Center for European Strategies from Skopje, conducted in partnership with the Balkan Institute for Regional Cooperation (BIRC) and the European Association for Local Democracy (ALDA), with support from the European
Union.

Welcome to Balkan Echoes! In today's episode, join your host Simona Bishkoska in exploring the Macedonian Network of the Anna Lindh Foundation. We'll discuss how this network fosters cross-cultural understanding, empowers youth, and creates positive change in North Macedonia. Our guest Simona Slavkova shares insights on their impactful projects, and the benefits of international collaboration, and gives us a sneak peek at an exciting upcoming event. Join us for an inspiring look at how local actions are shaping a more connected and inclusive society.

Welcome to Balkan Echoes! In this debut episode join your host Simona Bishkoska in introducing BOOST: Balkans for Optimising Opportunities, Sustainability and Transformation of Civil Society, an exciting new initiative to strengthen civil society organisations' capacities in the Western Balkans. With special guests Katica Janeva, Director of ALDA Balkans, and Philippe Walfard, Project Manager at Agence Française de Développement (AFD), they share how BOOST aims to empower CSOs, foster collaboration, and build stronger communities.

Discover how BOOST addresses key challenges, supports sustainable development and aims to create a lasting impact across the Western Balkan region!