Report warns of attempts to dismantle pluralism in Western Balkans

“The findings of the 2024 Monitoring Matrix Report underscore a critical juncture for democracy in the Western Balkans and Türkiye,” report co-author Anja Bosilkova-Antovska is quoted as saying in a press release. She warned that “the erosion of civic space is not accidental; it reflects a strategic attempt to dismantle democratic pluralism”. “When protestors are beaten, journalists sued into silence, and activists surveilled, the space for democratic debate collapses,” she added.

The BCSDN urgently called national governments, the European Union, and international donors to strengthen legal certainty, foster sustainable financing, enhance meaningful cooperation and proactively protect civic actors.

Report co-author Simona Mladenovska said that the resilience of civil society in the face of mounting pressure is a testament to their unwavering commitment to democratic values. “Sustained international support and meaningful political will, both domestically and from the EU, are essential to protect these efforts and ensure that civic actors are recognized not as adversaries, but as indispensable partners in building democratic, inclusive, and resilient societies,” she said.

The report listed several critical areas of concern including the erosion of fundamental freedoms in practice, stagnant financial viability and inconsistent government cooperation with civil society.