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Keynote Talk from Bernhard Fabianek, Senior Expert for Horizon Europe Association, DG RTD, European Commission in the first Plenary Session of POLICY ANSWERS conference on “Policy Dialogue on Aligning Priorities in the Western Balkans”.
In October 2021, the Western Balkans Agenda was launched at the Brdo EU-Western Balkans Summit, setting the stage for transformative change and collaboration. Since then, significant milestones have been achieved, shaping the region’s trajectory towards research, innovation, and sustainable development.
1. Overcoming Budget Challenges: In 2022, the Western Balkans faced fears of reduced research and innovation budgets due to the global energy crisis. However, the region responded with resilience, resulting in the highest budgets ever allocated to these vital sectors.
2. Horizon Europe’s Soaring Participation: Participation in Horizon Europe doubled compared to the 2019-20 figures, with a remarkable €83.7 million secured in less than two years, already accounting for 48% of Horizon 2020 funding. This surge in funding is a testament to the growing commitment to research and innovation.
3. Strengthening Research and Education Ecosystems: Progress was marked by the screening of Research and Education ecosystems in Albania and North Macedonia, aligning with Chapters 25 and 26. This step enhances the quality and relevance of educational institutions in the region.
4. Elevating Innovation: Innovation has gained significant political attention, contributing to economic growth and job creation. Smart Specialisation Strategies and evidence-based policy-making are driving innovation and competitiveness in the Western Balkans.
What Lies Ahead for the Western Balkans Agenda?
The journey continues with a focus on several key areas:
1. Collaborative Initiatives: EU Member States, the Berlin Process, and partnerships in renewable energy and education will be crucial in advancing the Western Balkans Agenda.
2. Sustainability and Green Deal: Efforts to combat climate change will be reinforced through participation in the JRC summer school, addressing air pollution, and embracing the New Bauhaus concept.
3. Climate Resilience: The establishment of the Climate Resilient Excellence Hub (Antares, Widening) demonstrates a commitment to environmental sustainability and resilience.
4. Innovation Clusters: Regional Innovation Clusters, EIT Hubs, and enhanced academia-business cooperation will foster innovation and entrepreneurship.
5. European Networks and Initiatives: Engagement with the Enterprise Europe Network, European Innovation Agenda, and investment in fiber, the Digital Europe Programme, GÉANT, Cyber Security, and EuroHPC will drive technological progress.
6. Urban and Ocean Missions: City-focused missions in Sarajevo, Podgorica, and Elbasan, as well as the Ocean Mission through University Master Courses, will help address pressing urban and environmental challenges.
As the Western Balkans Agenda continues to evolve, these initiatives and commitments ensure that the region is on the path to a brighter, more sustainable future. Collaboration, innovation, and dedication to research and development are key drivers of progress, and the Western Balkans are well-positioned to seize the opportunities that lie ahead.