Enlargement fatigue and Democratic Backsliding in the Balkans

written by Gevin Sherko, Albania

In his recent speech at a meeting with Albanian diaspora in Milano, Italy, the Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama did not hesitate at throwing shades at the European Union regarding the prospects of Albania joining the European Union. Rama attributed the lack of progress to the “slow Brussels bureaucracy” which is moving with “turtle-like steps”.… Continue reading Enlargement fatigue and Democratic Backsliding in the Balkans





Therapeutic potential and risks of using magic mushrooms

written by Marija Đakonović, Montenegro

Psychedelic mushrooms and mental health Magic mushrooms, also known as psilocybin mushrooms, have been used for centuries in various cultural and spiritual contexts. Recently, these fungi have attracted the attention of the scientific community due to their potential therapeutic effects on mental health disorders. Are these mushrooms harmless and are there any risks? Mental health… Continue reading Therapeutic potential and risks of using magic mushrooms



Pro-Family Outcry: Reproductive and Gay Rights Draft Policies Spark Debate in Albania

written by LINDIANA AGOLLI, Albania

In May and June 2024, The Albanian Pro Family and Life Coalition led a campaign opposing a draft policy concerning reproductive rights. Two primary concerns raised by the coalition were the provision allowing abortions for girls over 16 without parental consent and the proposed legalization of surrogacy. Subsequently, on May 19th, the municipality of Tirana… Continue reading Pro-Family Outcry: Reproductive and Gay Rights Draft Policies Spark Debate in Albania





A New Era for Media Freedom: Why the European Media Freedom Act Matters to Young People

written by Nikola Srećković,, Serbia

On August 8, 2025, the European Media Freedom Act (EMFA) officially comes into force, introducing the first-ever comprehensive EU-level legislation dedicated to protecting media freedom, pluralism, and the independence of journalists. Although it primarily applies to EU member states, its influence will likely extend across Europe, especially in neighboring regions.



The reality of youth in the WB and EUs role

written by Džejlana Aganović, Bosnia and Herzegovina

In Bosnia and Herzegovina, and across much of the Western Balkans, young people often feel stuck between ambition and stagnation. While EU policies promote youth empowerment, democracy and inclusion, the reality on the ground often feels not as such.



The Game of Lie

written by TADJEDDINE Hayet, Algeria

In our society where technology took over our personal lives, It’s really another world behind our phone screens, a perfect world, everything is complete. We see thousands of stories and publications every day and we don’t know who’s real, who’s perfect and who’s just hiding behind his phone screen.



Croatia’s Silent Dawn: Inside the Lives of the Foreign Workers

written by Matija Carević, Croatia

It’s early autumn morning. Maria sends a quick heart emoji to her family as she walks out of her small apartment. The streets are empty, the city still asleep, and the weight of a thousand kilometers lingers on her shoulders as she walks through the quiet dawn. She is one of thousands.