The EUKI Academy Networking Event for the Western Balkans is a regional platform designed to strengthen climate cooperation, foster knowledge exchange, and connect key actors working on climate action across the Western Balkans and the European Union. The event brings together representatives of civil society, public institutions, local authorities, research organisations, and climate professionals, creating space for dialogue, learning, and collaboration on pressing climate challenges.
The event is organised under the European Climate Initiative (EUKI), a funding instrument of the German Federal Ministry for the Environment, Climate Action, Nature Conservation and Nuclear Safety (BMUV). EUKI supports ambitious climate initiatives across Europe, with a strong focus on capacity building, strengthening civil society, and promoting transnational cooperation. Particular attention is given to Central, Eastern and Southern Europe, including EU accession countries in the Western Balkans, to support effective, inclusive and socially just climate action.
Within this framework, the EUKI Networking Event in Sarajevo is conceptualised as a three-day conference that contributes to:
- the exchange of experiences and good practices in climate policy and implementation,
- strengthening regional and transnational networks,
- connecting EUKI-funded projects and actors to create synergies,
- enabling dialogue on current climate policy developments, challenges, and opportunities for a just climate transition.
The conference programme combines interactive workshops, knowledge-sharing sessions, thematic discussions, and policy dialogues, addressing climate change mitigation, adaptation to climate risks, and the role of different sectors in achieving climate neutrality. A strong emphasis is placed on the specific context of the Western Balkans, while linking local and regional initiatives to broader European climate objectives and policy frameworks.
Through this project, all key elements required for the successful preparation and implementation of the conference are delivered – from the conceptual development of the event and its programme structure, to close coordination with EUKI and GIZ teams, and the full implementation of the conference in Sarajevo. The event thus serves as a high-quality platform for exchange, cooperation, and visibility, reinforcing the impact of EUKI-supported initiatives in the region.
The EUKI Networking Event – Western Balkans contributes to the long-term strengthening of climate capacities and cooperation in the region, laying the groundwork for future joint initiatives and more effective climate action at local, national, and regional levels.