BERLIN – On the 10th anniversary of the launching of the Berlin Process in 2014, the Heads of Government of Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo*, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Serbia, as well as the representatives of Austria, Bulgaria, Croatia, France, Germany, Greece, Italy, Poland, Slovenia, the United Kingdom, and representatives of the European Union (EU) and of international and regional bodies and organisations as well as financial institutions met in person in Berlin on 14 October 2024 for the Summit Meeting of the Berlin Process. Hungary in its capacity as rotating Presidency of the Council of the European Union was invited as an observer. RYCO was represented by Secretary General Albert Hani, who highlighted the organization’s commitment to fostering inclusive regional cooperation. RYCO’s efforts were acknowledged in the Chair’s Conclusions of the meeting.
“The participants received a presentation by representatives of the Youth and the Civil Society Forum at the Berlin Process Summit on 14 October 2024 and exchanged views on the involvement of Youth and Civil Society in the Berlin Process” – reads the 12th conclusion.
“Agreements that you signed within Berlin Process give the hope to youth and cooperation you achieve through this platform is the only way to keep our youth in Western Balkans region,” stated SG Hani.
The participants expressed their strong support for the outcomes of the Western Balkans Youth Forum, organised by RYCO, held on 1314 October 2024, in Berlin, which emphasised the vital role of youth as agents of change.
“The participants called for their meaningful participation in decision-making processes and urged for the enhancement of reconciliation initiatives and youth mobility schemes, advancement of the regional Youth Peace and Security agenda, improved youth employability, and greater cooperation among relevant authorities to strengthen policies that address the needs and aspirations of young people and the additional emphasis it places on transport connectivity between the capitals of the participating countries” – reads the 19th conclusion.
Read the full text of conlusions HERE
*This designation is without prejudice to positions on status and is in line with UNSCR 1244 and the ICJ Opinion on the Kosovo Declaration of Independence.