
Reflection on Past and Future in the Balkans
An article reflects on three decades of unresolved conflicts from the past, the burden of living in the present shaped by history, and the uncertain future in the Balkans.
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An article reflects on three decades of unresolved conflicts from the past, the burden of living in the present shaped by history, and the uncertain future in the Balkans.

Tbilisi, Georgia, situated between Europe and Asia, Russia and the Middle East, and the Caucasus and Black Sea, has for centuries learned to preserve its identity, with its history visible in its architecture, churches, and markets.

Сръбските спешни служби се борят с големи горски пожари в различни части на страната.

A coordinated international police operation has led to the arrest of organizers of migrant smuggling networks with strong ties to Libya and the Western Balkans, who had amassed hundreds of thousands of euros.

A model of luxury branded residences, a stable segment in developed real estate markets, has officially arrived in the Balkans through the Delta District project in Belgrade.

A heatwave is peaking across the Balkans, with temperatures exceeding 40 degrees Celsius in Croatia and parts of Bosnia and Herzegovina, and a new heat record set in Bratislava, Slovakia, leading to destructive fires and critically low river levels.

The Balkan region is experiencing a severe heatwave, with temperatures expected to peak at up to 42°C, particularly in Croatia. This tropical wave is causing concerns about rivers drying up and prompting advice on how to stay safe.

Following Raiffeisen Bank's acquisition of Addiko Bank, Alta Group is now cleared to take over Addiko's operations in Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Montenegro.
A BIRN investigation details the journey of a Serbian mercenary who transitioned from fighting in Ukraine to becoming a hitman for Balkan organized crime groups. The report, titled 'Ticket Out,' uncovers his involvement in contract killings.

Various international news outlets have published their daily briefings, front pages, and news roundups for Monday, August 3, 2026. These publications provide a snapshot of the day's top headlines and news summaries.

A video of pop star Dua Lipa after a 5 AM outing in Albania went viral, sparking comments about her 'Balkan style' during her time at the Sunny Hill Festival.

The Exit Festival, the largest music festival in the Balkans, has reportedly moved from Serbia to Montenegro due to pressure from the Serbian state, according to German public broadcaster reports.
A study on digital security in the Western Balkans and EU indicates that civil society organizations in Montenegro most frequently identify digital threats as politically motivated.

Balkan Insight's weekly review highlights premium stories covering Washington’s shifting foreign policy priorities in the Balkans, a suspicious drug trawl, surging property prices, and tourism challenges.

A Swiss historian, Oliver Jens Schmitt, specializing in Eastern European history, was interviewed by the Neue Zürcher Zeitung (NZZ) about Josip Broz Tito's balancing act, Aleksandar Vučić, and emerging trends in the Balkans.

The Swiss press, specifically the Neue Zürcher Zeitung, published articles discussing the history of the Balkans and its often-negative image. The reports delve into the region's past and its contemporary perception.

Palermo's chief prosecutor Maurizio de Lucia stated that the Italian mafia, which already possesses weapons from the Balkans, is now looking to acquire drones similar to those deployed in the war in Ukraine.

A political analyst suggests that the Trump family's business ventures in the Balkans represent a 'new normal' and warns that American democracy is under threat ahead of the November mid-term elections, also referencing the consequences of an unsuccessful war against Iran.

Montenegro has become the first country in the Balkans to introduce paid menstrual leave for women experiencing severe pain. This new policy grants two days of paid leave for specific health cases related to menstruation.

More than a year after the launch of the EU's €6 billion growth plan for the Western Balkans, only Montenegro, Albania, and North Macedonia have received multiple reform-linked payments, highlighting a two-speed integration process.

Austrian Minister Stocker announced plans for "Return Hubs" for rejected asylum seekers by 2027, following discussions with his Greek counterpart Mitsotakis on asylum policy, Western Balkans enlargement, and competitiveness.

Denitsa Stoyanova-Stanes, HR Head for the Balkans cluster at AstraZeneca, emphasizes the importance of dialogue in building trust, drawing on her 20 years of experience in human resources.

Slovenian investors find it easier to invest in the Balkans than domestically due to lengthy permit acquisition processes and network limitations hindering renewable energy projects.

This article provides weekly energy news, focusing on Europe's preference for electricity over gas and Bulgaria's potential role as the 'battery of the Balkans,' including data on renewable energy projects.
Europe is experiencing persistent erratic weather, with Spain and France continuing to battle wildfires fueled by an intense heatwave gripping Southern Europe. An extreme heatwave continues to fuel dangerous conditions across the continent, also bringing hail to the Balkans.

World-renowned DJ Solomun is scheduled to perform on August 21st in Sarajevo, transforming Titova Street into the largest dance floor in the Balkans for the closing night of the Sarajevo Film Festival.

Powerful storms swept across the Balkans following intense heatwaves, resulting in one fatality and 13 injuries. The extreme weather caused significant damage and prompted thousands of emergency calls in multiple countries.

A project led by a grandmother and granddaughter in Australia is celebrating Balkan traditions through workshops focused on making pita and burek, incorporating laughter, song, and dance.

The 10th International Film Festival in Perast, Montenegro, is scheduled to take place from July 26 to 30. This jubilee edition aims to connect cinematographies, cultures, and audiences across the Balkans and beyond, followed by a tour across Montenegro and the region.

Firefighters battled Spain's largest wildfire of the year, while two firefighters died fighting a blaze in southwestern France, as extreme heat continued across Europe, bringing hailstorms to the Balkans.

Brussels is considering a new position and strategy, potentially rethinking its approach and role in the Western Balkans. This indicates a possible shift in the European Union's engagement with the region.

Christian nationalists are reportedly forming networks from the Balkans to the USA, uniting in their opposition to liberal ideologies and often blurring the boundaries between politics and nationally charged religious beliefs.

Bulgaria is positioned to become the 'battery of the Balkans,' indicating its growing role in energy production and supply for the region. This development highlights the country's potential in the energy sector.

Producer and DJ Damjan Eltec, known for blending Balkan and global sounds, is set to perform in Bosnia and Herzegovina amidst a peak in his career.

The opera 'Balkan Empress,' based on the work of King Nikola and directed by Nina Martinović, will premiere today in Luštica Bay as a contemporary tragedy about choices that define a person, with free admission.

In an interview, Gianni Bono, co-author of the 'STRIP MADE IN ITALY – Generations' exhibition, discusses comics as the best communicative synthesis, highlighting the strong connection between the history of sequential art in the Balkans and the influential Italian school of comics.

Macedonian actor Naumovski, who has lived and worked in New York for over two decades, states that actors from the Balkans must put in three times more effort for an international career compared to their counterparts from larger film markets.

A graffiti message in English that read 'The only genocide in the Balkans was against Serbs' has been painted over on a building in Knez Mihailova street, located in the strict center of Belgrade.

North Macedonia's NOMAGAS is participating in a meeting to include the national gas system in the regional planning of infrastructure and cross-border capacities for the Vertical Corridor towards the Western Balkans. Discussions involved DESFA from Greece and Bulgartransgaz from Bulgaria.

The Western consensus on the Western Balkans has fractured, with the EU and US openly pursuing different policy options in the region for the first time in years. This has turned the Western Balkans into an ideological battleground between Western powers.

Luarasi University has become the first university in the Balkans to introduce academic programs from the London School of Economics (LSE) in Albania, offering students elite education standards without needing to leave the country.

Balkan Insight provides a digest of the most important developments and news from countries across the region over the weekend.

Rural areas are experiencing rapid change as people move to large cities or abroad for work, sending money back to their families who then expand their homes. This trend is particularly noticeable in the Balkans but also affects other parts of the world.

Danish Foreign Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen traveled to a Balkan country after a summit with Trump, as part of a plan to challenge the President's "vision of doom."

Croatian Minister of Foreign and European Affairs, Gordan Grlić Radman, emphasized the strategic importance of European Union enlargement to the Western Balkans for the security of Europe.

Ibrahimović stated that Montenegro remains a strong pillar of European policy, with its sights set on becoming a responsible member of the European Union and NATO, bringing stability and prosperity to the Western Balkans.
Serbia's chief organized crime prosecutor, Mladen Nenadić, met with his French counterpart in Paris to discuss the exchange of Sky ECC encrypted communication data. Eurojust supports strengthening cooperation between France and the Western Balkans on this matter.

Historians Dubravka Stojanović, Hrvoje Klasić, and Edin Omerčić discuss the challenges of confronting the past in the Balkan region, 31 years after significant events.

A new digital rights monitoring report by BIRN reveals an increasingly hostile digital landscape, particularly for journalists and civil society, across the Western Balkans and Turkey.

Dragan Mikić, an accused member of the 'Balkan Cartel', has reached a plea agreement with the Prosecutor's Office for Organized Crime, admitting to using the encrypted communication platform Sky ECC.

The French Ambassador to Serbia, Florence Ferrari, stated that the Franco-German proposal for EU enlargement, formulated at the EU-Western Balkans summit in Tivat, offers significant economic and political benefits for Serbia through gradual integration.

A commentary piece suggests the Balkans may rise on Britain's priority list under a new prime minister, while a novel humorously explores indifference to the UK's potential demise.
The European Union has stated its rejection of Russia's destabilizing activities in the Western Balkans, emphasizing that relations with Russia cannot continue as usual.

Balkan Insight provides a digest of the most important news developments from countries across the Balkan region over the past weekend.

The United States is reportedly prioritizing natural gas interests in the Balkans, particularly through the use of the Krk terminal, which is seen as a move that sidelines the European Union's green energy policies.

An EU-Western Balkans summit held in Tivat, Montenegro, focused on EU enlargement and regional cooperation but was overshadowed by an 'information war'.

Interpol has issued a red notice for a Ukrainian woman identified as the main suspect in a Monaco apartment bombing targeting an oligarch. The woman, who reportedly disguised herself as a man, is currently on the run.

Azeski, speaking at a forum organized by the Chamber, emphasized the need for greater regional cooperation and adherence to European values, stating he has traveled extensively across the Balkans.

A discussion on the de-escalation of tensions in EU-Serbia relations and the deadline for reforms under the Western Balkans Growth Plan, which could impact Serbia's financial payments.

The EU is changing the principle of distributing funds for the Western Balkans through the Reform and Growth Instrument, established in 2024, with Bosnia and Herzegovina identified as the biggest loser due to strict reform conditions.

The US Men's National Team advanced to the World Cup Round of 16 after defeating Bosnia-Herzegovina 2-0, but will be without Folarin Balogun due to a controversial red card and subsequent suspension. The team cannot appeal Balogun's suspension, impacting their upcoming match against Belgium.

A powerful storm system has caused significant traffic disruptions in Germany and Switzerland and is now heading towards Bosnia and Herzegovina, bringing heavy rainfall and a noticeable drop in temperature.

High school students from Serbia and Moldova achieved success at the Balkan Physics Olympiad in Istanbul, winning a total of four medals. The students were awarded gold and bronze medals for their performance in the competition.

Requests for the right to information have increased across the Western Balkans, but despite formal improvements in transparency, institutions have found new ways to deny access to information.

A new BIRN report highlights that despite robust legal frameworks, public institutions in the Western Balkans continue to find new methods to obstruct transparency and impede freedom of information.

As Pride Month concludes, the focus shifts from the number of march participants to whether LGBTQ+ individuals in the Balkans feel safer throughout the rest of the year, highlighting the need for continuous freedom and safety.

A severe heatwave has gripped multiple European countries, leading to record-breaking temperatures, over 1,300 deaths, and a 20% surge in electricity consumption in some areas. The extreme conditions have also caused infrastructure issues and tragic incidents, including the deaths of children left in cars.

Recent bipartisan calls from American lawmakers for the Trump administration to sanction Bosnian Serb officials who deny the Srebrenica genocide highlight the ongoing impact of Trump's policies on the Balkans, with Bosnia facing renewed destabilization risks and becoming a new battleground between the West and Russia.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy visited Serbia, a country with historical ties to Russia, securing pledges of support while Russian missile attacks near Kyiv killed a child and two others. The visit aimed to strengthen Ukraine's diplomatic standing as Russian influence in the Balkans wanes.

The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) has provided a long-term unsecured loan of up to €4 million to NLB Bank within the GEFF III REpower Residential program for the Western Balkans. This financing aims to support renewable energy for residential buildings.

Agreements have been signed for a 149 million euro grant from the EU's Western Balkans Investment Framework, along with 175 million euro loans each from the European Investment Bank and the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, to finance the third phase of Railway Corridor 8.

Warm air masses are forecast to affect the Balkan region throughout the day on August 6, 2026. This will lead to generally hot weather conditions across the area.

A severe heatwave in the Balkans has led to two lakes drying up at Serbia's largest water buffalo farm, leaving the animals without water for cooling.

A tropical heatwave with temperatures reaching 40 degrees Celsius is gripping Serbia and the Balkans, prompting warnings for citizens to protect themselves and calls from trade unions for employers to implement safety measures for workers.

Dua Lipa's recent meal of a pljeskavica (Balkan burger) has ignited a widespread discussion across the Balkans about the origin and ownership of the popular dish. The singer's choice of food prompted many to debate which country can claim the pljeskavica as its own.

The Municipality of Meteora is undertaking significant initiatives to protect and promote the historic Psyrra Bridge, an important caravan passage from the Balkans.

Pop star Dua Lipa was seen enjoying a pleskavica in lepinja, a traditional Balkan dish, at 4:30 AM. She humorously remarked, "Fuck avocado toast," embracing the "Balkan way."

Western Balkan countries are experiencing labor shortages due to high youth emigration, leading to an increased reliance on foreign workers. The region shows varying levels of support for these foreign employees.

A traveler recounts their experience of searching for affordable accommodation and instead discovering a 'paradise on Earth' in a small Balkan town, leaving a lasting impression with its scenic views, nature, and local cuisine.

Milorad Dodik, President of SNSD, criticized the functioning of the Schengen system and the European Union's approach to Western Balkan citizens, highlighting the influx of migrants into the Schengen zone.
Serbian international Strahinja Pavlović expressed confidence in AC Milan's potential for a more successful season under new coach Ruben Amorim, praising players like Kostić and Modrić.

The European Commission is considering launching an investigation into the import of certain construction materials from several Western Balkan countries, suspecting that China is using these routes to circumvent EU tariffs.

Montenegrin Minister of European Affairs, Maida Ivanović, stated that the Western Balkans is not a periphery but an integral part of Europe's future, highlighting that true progress begins when European values are embraced.

Several road accidents have been reported across the Balkans, including a serious incident near Dubrovnik where a 22-year-old motorcyclist sustained life-threatening injuries, and multiple injuries in Belgrade and Podareš.

Historian Oliver Jens Schmitt discusses the history of the Balkans, challenging common clichés about corruption, violence, and nationalism.

Romania has taken over the chairmanship of the Southeast European Cooperation Process (SEECP), with the Regional Cooperation Council (RCC) urging a new phase of practical cooperation and tangible results in the Balkans.
More than a year into the EU's €6 billion Growth Plan for the Western Balkans, Bosnia has implemented no reforms and has already lost €108 million, unlike Montenegro and Albania.

A digest of the most important news developments from countries across the Balkan region over the weekend, published on July 27, 2026.

Thirty student films from academies across the region are competing for the Golden Mimosa award at the 39th Herceg Novi Film Festival. These young filmmakers explore complex Balkan themes, showcasing their bravery, anger, and vulnerability.

The first weekend of the holiday season has led to significantly increased traffic and long queues at border crossings across Bosnia and Herzegovina and Slovenia. Major delays of up to 40 minutes are reported at key points like the Gruškovje border crossing towards Croatia and on major highways.

Slovenian investors are reportedly finding it easier to invest in the Balkans than in their home country, citing lengthy permit acquisition processes and network limitations for renewable energy projects as domestic challenges.

Wizz Air is set to open a new base in Pristina, while simultaneously considering the closure of its operations in Belgrade. This strategic shift could impact air travel in the Western Balkans.
Five centuries of ruthless Turkish colonization in present-day Bulgaria failed to extinguish the Christian tradition and identity of the inhabitants in that part of the Balkans.

Bulgaria has approved the deployment of US tanker aircraft on its territory, a decision that prompted a warning from Iran not to become a base for attacks. Local opposition has also emerged in the Yambol region against the stationing of American military personnel.

An article highlights a city in the Balkans described as the 'cheapest,' where items like a pljeskavica cost €3.25 and pool entry is €1.70.
Erratic weather patterns persist across Europe, contributing to wildfires in Spain and France and hail in the Balkans, as climate change intensifies extreme weather events.

Turkey's Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry has denied claims of a swarming grasshopper invasion reaching the country from the Balkans, Africa, or other regions.

An American visitor in Serbia encountered a scene at a local gym that completely surprised him, describing it as the 'pinnacle of the Balkans' due to its unique nature.

Fuel prices are increasing globally, with gasoline returning to $4 per gallon in the US and hikes reported in the Balkans and Asia, largely attributed to renewed tensions in the Middle East.

Balkan Insight released its Monday briefing, providing a digest of the most important news developments from countries across the Balkan region over the weekend.

The article explores unusual and unexpected events that can trigger wars, citing the example of a runaway dog that allegedly sparked a conflict in the Balkans in the 20th century.

A Sunday commentary discusses Croatian foreign policy, highlighting its dilemma between being perceived as a Central European country and its state interests largely concentrated in the Western Balkans, burdened by the wars of the Yugoslav legacy.

Łukasz Żak has been sentenced to 20 years in prison for causing a fatal car accident on Trasa Łazienkowska while intoxicated. Legal experts and the Minister of Justice have commented on the severity of the sentence, deeming it appropriate for the actions.

A family in the Balkans discovered that a 3.5 kg stone, which a woman had been using as a doorstop for decades, was actually a national treasure.

The New Democracy government is accused of undermining the historic Prespa Agreement from its first day, lacking a cohesive strategy for the Balkans and requiring political will for the region's European perspective.

Media coverage surrounding the Srebrenica genocide commemoration continued to present conflicting narratives of the July 1995 events, thereby reinforcing existing societal divisions in the Balkans.
Predsednik Evropskog saveta Antonio Košta izjavio je da je danas u Parizu upravo održan sastanak Koalicije voljnih za unapređenje podrške Ukrajini, i naglasio da proširenje EU sa Ukrajinom,…

A unique, 1,400-meter-long and barely 2-meter-wide tunnel in the Balkans is described as more akin to a cave, causing fear among many tourists who drive through it.

Mark Burns, the spiritual advisor to the US President, extensively documented his visit to Serbia and Bosnia and Herzegovina, including meetings with local officials like Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić, sharing messages of peace and reconciliation.

The Western Balkans region is grappling with the complexities and challenges of the ongoing global crisis. The situation is described as being 'between two fires,' highlighting the difficult position the region faces.

Montenegrin Metropolitan Mihailo stated in Potočari that the Memorial Center is a holy place for Europe and the Balkans. He emphasized that it should be a source of messages of peace and a lesson on how to live together.

Montenegro's Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ervin Ibrahimović participated in a 'Friends of the Western Balkans' meeting in Rome, emphasizing that EU enlargement must lead to full membership.

The National Orchestra of the Kolo Ensemble from Belgrade presented a musical journey through the rich heritage of the Balkans, receiving ovations from the audience at the Tivat Music Festival.

Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani emphasized the strategic importance of the Western Balkans for Europe, advocating for stronger ties between Italy and the region. He described the relationship as a strategic choice for the continent.
Cooler and wetter air is expected to flow into Slovakia from the north on Friday, influenced by a high-pressure ridge over the western Balkans and a low-pressure system near the Polish-Belarusian border. This forecast from SHMÚ meteorologists predicts clouds and showers, particularly in the eastern regions.
Slovak Minister Juraj Blanár is traveling to Rome for a 'Friends of Western Balkans' meeting, where discussions will focus on EU enlargement and strengthening Europe's strategic autonomy.

Despite President Trump's critical remarks and insults during the NATO summit, leaders found much to agree on, reaffirming their commitment to collective defense. Behind closed doors, Trump reportedly conveyed a different message, while public statements from leaders emphasized unity and readiness to defend NATO territory.

A doctor highlights the increasing number of colorectal cancer cases, one of the most common and deadly malignancies globally and in the Balkans, and discusses associated risk factors.

Bosnian fashion designer Adnan Hajrulahović Haad achieved notable international appearances, presenting his new HAAD/26 collection at the 'Fashion Bridges of the Balkans' event in Podgorica, Montenegro, and representing Bosnia and Herzegovina in Slovakia.

Montenegrin President Milatović emphasized the importance of the Netherlands' voice, citing Dutch Prime Minister Rob Jetten's participation in the EU-Western Balkans Summit as a strong affirmation of trust in Montenegro's European integration.

Fatmir Mediu, head of the Republican Party, spoke at the 33rd session of the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly, highlighting state capture, corruption, and drug trafficking linked to the government as major threats to security in Albania and the Balkans.

The European People's Party (EPP) has issued a call to accelerate the European Union's enlargement process to include Ukraine, Moldova, and the Western Balkan states, while emphasizing the necessity of respecting reforms and Copenhagen criteria.

János Dunai, a Hungarian YouTuber originally from Vojvodina, now living in Cluj-Napoca, uses his channel "Living Ironically in Europe" to explain the realities of Eastern Europe and the Balkans to a global audience, finding Transylvania more livable than the US or tourist-heavy Budapest.

The European Commission is evaluating reforms to decide on the potential redirection of funds from the Western Balkans Growth Plan to countries like Serbia. An expert notes that the EU is still more inclined to offer 'carrots' than 'sticks' but Serbia is already a 'repeat student'.

The Regional Cooperation Council participated in this year's Gender Equality Forum, emphasizing stronger regional cooperation for advancing gender equality in the Western Balkans.

A traditional recipe for višnjevača, a popular homemade cherry liqueur in the Balkans, has been shared. The recipe promises a rich flavor and aroma, making it a staple for family gatherings.

The European Commission plans to reallocate funds for the Western Balkans, prioritizing countries that implement reforms more quickly, such as Montenegro. Bosnia and Herzegovina, Serbia, and Kosovo are expected to lose a portion of their allocated funds.

According to The Economist, American policy towards the Western Balkans is increasingly shaped by energy, primarily the export of US liquefied natural gas.

Bosnia-Herzegovina is highlighted as a country in the Balkans where history, spirituality, culture, and nature harmoniously converge, offering a rich journey through its Ottoman heritage.

Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić met with the President of North Macedonia to exchange views on important regional issues. The leaders discussed matters pertinent to the stability and cooperation of the Western Balkans.

A business event in Frankfurt showcased the Western Balkans to German companies as a promising European destination for investments in Global Business Services (GBS), outsourcing, and nearshoring.

Frontex has reported that criminal groups from the Western Balkans have established a direct operational presence in drug-producing countries, significantly expanding their reach.

Investors known in Hungary have made a significant deal in the Balkan media market, with the largest acquisition being the Serbian N1 group, raising concerns about political pressure on the purchased newspapers.

Frontex has issued a warning that citizens from Russia, China, and Turkey are exploiting the visa-free regime in the Western Balkans. This abuse is raising concerns about migration and security in the region.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy visited Serbia to garner support, despite Belgrade's close ties with Moscow. This visit occurred as Ukraine faces ongoing Russian attacks, including concerns over the Zaporizhzhia NPP losing external power and the broader threat of a winter power crisis.
Niebezpieczne pożary szaleją na Bałkanach. W Serbii w piątek trwała walka z ogniem, który opanował sporą część rezerwatu przyrody Piaski Deliblatskie. Konieczne był ewakuacje.

Wildfires are raging across the Balkans, fueled by a severe heatwave with temperatures reaching 40°C, forcing thousands to evacuate. Firefighters are battling dangerous blazes in multiple countries, including Greece, where tourists and locals have been displaced.

Croatian singer Severina has unveiled new music videos for her songs 'Nisam kriva ja' (Bezosjećajna) and 'Pozovi me ti' (Anksiozna), following her previous release, with fans drawing comparisons to Jennifer Lopez.

Tihomir Bezlov stated that Bulgaria is a unique case in the Balkans regarding the distribution of fentanyl, highlighting the country's specific challenges with the drug.
Turkish influence is currently being tested across various regions in the Balkans, indicating shifting geopolitical dynamics.

A 71-year-old blind man in Vienna was the victim of a heartless scam at a Balkan fast-food restaurant, losing nearly 5,000 euros he had saved for his own funeral, causing him to collapse from shock.
A heat dome is expanding towards the Balkan region, bringing extreme temperatures expected to reach up to 43 degrees Celsius and tropical nights. Bosnia and Herzegovina is among the countries bracing for temperatures exceeding 40 degrees.

Border crossings in the Balkans, particularly Tabakovce, Bogorodica, and Morina, are experiencing significantly increased traffic and longer waiting times. This surge is attributed to a high frequency of travelers, including Kosovar Albanians heading to the coast.

A tropical heatwave with temperatures reaching 40 degrees Celsius is affecting Serbia and the wider Balkan region, leading to significantly increased electricity consumption and threatening agricultural crops.

Germany's public broadcaster reported that Exit, the largest music festival in the Balkans, has moved from Serbia to Montenegro due to pressure from the Serbian state.

Serbian authorities under President Vučić are aggressively targeting the government-critical cultural scene, with the Exit music festival, the largest in the Balkans, being forced to move from Serbia to Montenegro due to state pressure.

Fuel prices in Serbia remain the most expensive in the Balkan region. This continues a trend where Serbian consumers pay more for fuel compared to neighboring countries.

Zala Djurić has spoken about her experiences with motherhood and her acting career, revealing that her father actively tried to dissuade her from pursuing acting. She also touched upon Balkan humor in her discussions.

Meteorologists forecast a long-lasting heatwave across Balkan countries during the first 10 days of August, with temperatures expected to reach up to 40 degrees Celsius.

Portuguese jazz singer Amalija Baraona is captivating audiences and popularizing bossa nova music across the Balkan region with her charismatic performances.

Despite expectations that Viktor Orbán's departure would unblock Ukraine's path to EU integration, Budapest has once again halted progress, prioritizing Western Balkan countries.

Emina Jahović, who gained fame in the Balkans in 2002, reflects on her challenging childhood where even tomatoes were a luxury, contrasting it with her current comfortable life as a singer, songwriter, and entrepreneur.

President Trump met with Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu to discuss Iran, with Trump expressing optimism for a diplomatic solution while Iran denied negotiations. Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Zelenskyy arrived in the US seeking stronger air defense, as the Trump administration delayed aid to Ukraine.

Serbia's stalled progress in joining the EU could complicate Ukraine's membership candidacy, as countries friendly to the Western Balkans seek to advance their integration.

A BIRN survey reveals that child maintenance systems are failing single mothers in the Balkans and other regions, with many fathers failing to pay, paying insufficient amounts, or making late payments, placing a significant financial burden on mothers.

A historical analysis explores how a casual 'napkin agreement' between Winston Churchill and Joseph Stalin in 1944 cynically determined the fate of millions in the Balkans, particularly impacting Macedonians between 1941 and 1949.

The largest square in Greece, and indeed the entire Balkans, is not located in Athens or Thessaloniki, but in a city that overflows with visitors during the summer. Greece is now a year-round tourist destination.

Two significant cocaine seizures in Liberia and Italy have brought renewed attention to the potential involvement of Balkan groups, including Serbia, in the global cocaine trade.

The Balkan region has been struck by powerful storms, resulting in two deaths in Albania and dozens injured in neighboring North Macedonia. Climate change is cited as a contributing factor to the severe weather.
Severe storms have swept across the Balkans, resulting in the deaths of at least two people and injuring dozens more. The extreme weather has caused widespread disruption and damage in the region.

After extreme heatwaves and a 'fire dome' effect, Herzegovina faced severe weather, including supercell storms, prompting the activation of anti-hail protection.

Brussels' inconsistent approach to bilateral disputes in the Western Balkans, exemplified by its stance on North Macedonia and Bulgaria, is seen as undermining the EU's overall credibility.

A criminal group involved in smuggling migrants along the Balkan route using stolen vehicles has been dismantled. The operation successfully broke up the network responsible for these illicit activities.

After a fire is brought under control and the area is safe, a special rescue team from the Green Balkans Wildlife Rescue Center begins work to save wild animals in the affected territory.

Budva is set to become a center of the global electronic music scene on July 23, as Top Hill, the largest club in the Balkans, will host renowned DJ and producer Steve Aoki for one of the summer's biggest musical events.

Aleksandar Radivojević, one of the most renowned screenwriters in the Balkans and globally, presents his directorial debut, exploring the theme that capitalists rule both in heaven and on Earth.

US policy in the Balkans is entirely linked to gas, with a floating liquefied natural gas terminal on the Croatian island of Krk highlighted as a key component.
The European Commission has officially appointed Marko Makovec as the new Principal Adviser for Reconciliation and Normalisation for the Western Balkans, signaling renewed efforts in the region.
EU appoints chief advisor for reconciliation and normalization of the Western Balkans

A seemingly simple mathematical expression has sparked widespread debate and controversy on social media across the Balkans, with many confident in their answers but arriving at different solutions.
Former European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker has stated that Ukraine should not be given concrete promises of admission to the European Union and warned against disadvantaging Western Balkan countries in the enlargement process.

Young people from the Western Balkans will participate in the 'Shared Horizons' project to learn storytelling techniques, photography, visual narration, and interviewing skills to preserve cultural heritage.

Gert Jan Koopman, Director of the European Commission's Directorate-General for Neighbourhood and Enlargement Negotiations, stated that the assessment is ongoing regarding whether Serbia has met the conditions for the second tranche of the Western Balkans Growth Plan.

An analysis discusses how geography has become geostrategy in the Balkans, arguing that Albanians, once believing poverty was their greatest curse, now face a different risk as they gain geopolitical importance.
Bosnia and Herzegovina was a key topic, alongside Ukraine, the Middle East, and regional security, at Monday's meeting of EU foreign ministers.

The Berlin Congress, a diplomatic gathering of European states, was convened on this day to resolve border issues in the Balkans and establish the modern geopolitical landscape of the region.

Italian media outlet Il Sole 24 Ore has analyzed a wave of protests sweeping across the Balkans, including demonstrations in Tirana, Belgrade, and Sarajevo, labeling the collective movements a "New Balkan Spring."

Algida Ice Cream Company, a Greek entity, is entering a new phase with an expanded regional role in the Balkans after its ice cream business spun off from Unilever.

Italian businesses, represented by Confindustria Est Europa, are adopting a more cautious approach in the Balkans due to ongoing protests in Belgrade. They emphasize the need for stability to compete with China in the region.

The 'Friends of the Balkans' group approved the 'Rome Charter' at a summit in Rome, with Italy pressing for the Western Balkans' accession to the EU. New negotiations for EU membership are set for July 14 for Ukraine, Montenegro, Moldova, and Albania.

Hungary placed fighter jets on alert after a Cathay Pacific Airbus A350 unexpectedly lost contact with air traffic control on July 4 while in NATO airspace over the Balkans.

Influencer and fashion designer Tamara Kalinić delivered a heartfelt speech to her fiancé Filippo Testa at their wedding, capturing public attention.

Eurojust, in collaboration with Europol and through the Criminal Justice Project for the Western Balkans, has launched Operation Flying Bride. This new initiative aims to coordinate and strengthen investigations related to Sky ECC encrypted communication evidence in the region.

The meeting focused on implementing the Roadmap for a sustainable solution to combat illicit possession, misuse, and trafficking of small arms and light weapons and related ammunition in the Western Balkans by 2030.

Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić stated his pessimism regarding a rapid expansion of the European Union and quick membership for candidate countries, including those in the Western Balkans. He emphasized that the region has not yet overcome the differences and conflicts of the 1990s.

An opinion piece discusses Brent Sadler's role in what is perceived as a Western plan to dismantle and pacify independent media outlets like N1, Nova, and Danas in the Balkans.

A Portuguese regulator previously fined 'Alpac Capital,' a potential new media player in the Balkans, for poor control over the origin of investor funds, raising new questions about its dossier.

US policy in the Balkans is reportedly centered on gas, with the use of the Krk terminal potentially pushing the EU's green policy to the side.

Poland's Ministry of Foreign Affairs supports the European integration of the Western Balkans and the fight against disinformation, while also backing protective mechanisms for new EU members but opposing solutions that would lead to 'semi-membership'.

An exhibition in the Balkans transports visitors back to the 1990s, a decade many in the region would prefer to forget but are constantly drawn back to.

The EU is set to decide in July on payments from the Growth Plan for the Western Balkans, following the deadline for countries like Albania and Serbia to implement reforms by the end of last month.

A couple shared their method for keeping belongings safe at the beach, prompting public discussion and suggestions for a 'Balkan method' of security.

An N1-BiH report suggests that if the EU continues to delay decisive actions in Bosnia and Herzegovina, the resulting geopolitical vacuum could be exploited by other global powers, including Russia and China.

PepsiCo has appointed Mihaela Hristea as the new General Manager for East Balkans and promoted Radu Berevoescu to General Manager for East Europe.

Violent storms have caused extensive damage across Romania, particularly in the capital, and other Balkan countries. One person died in Romania, with hundreds of cars destroyed and nearly 1,000 trees downed, leading to thousands of emergency interventions.

Miroslav Hlaváč, a veteran of missions in the Balkans and Afghanistan, has been appointed as the new Chief of the General Staff of the Czech Army.

Croatian designer Ivica Skoko showcased his latest collection at the 'Fashion Bridges of the Balkans' event in Podgorica, Montenegro, receiving acclaim for his designs.

While air conditioning is common in the Balkans, only a quarter of French households have AC, with Spain and Italy around 50%, raising questions about future adoption in Europe.

The membership of Western Balkan countries in the European Union is viewed as an investment in the region's future. Montenegro strongly supports further strengthening of defense cooperation.
A new sculpture named 'Terazije,' depicting a scale with two pans, was installed overnight in a Belgrade roundabout at Terazije, near the turn for Prizrenska and Balkanska streets, as a new city symbol announced by Mayor Aleksandar Šapić.