The College of Europe successfully organised a two-week training programme for young civil servants from the Western Balkans, implemented in the framework of a project funded by the Kingdom of the Netherlands. The programme took place in June 2024 and was hosted in Tirana, with a study visit to Brussels and The Hague.

Overview of the Programme

The training programme brought together young public officials representing ministries and state institutions whose work relates to foreign affairs, EU affairs, and regional cooperation. Participants came from across the six Western Balkan countries: Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo*, Montenegro, North Macedonia, and Serbia.

Over the course of the programme, participants engaged in an intensive learning experience aimed at strengthening their understanding of the European Union, the enlargement process, and the practical skills required to contribute effectively to EU integration efforts in the region.

Learning Approach and Activities

The programme combined academic content with practical, skills-based learning and peer exchange. A variety of formats were used to maximise engagement and learning outcomes, including:

• Interactive lectures delivered by high-level experts and practitioners;
• Workshops dedicated to developing soft skills, with a particular focus on negotiation and communication;
• A simulation exercise centred on negotiation processes within an EU context;
• A study visit to EU institutions in Brussels, offering first-hand insight into EU decision-making;
• A study visit to The Hague, providing exposure to international governance and cooperation frameworks;
• Social and networking activities fostering regional cooperation and professional exchange among participants.

Key Topics Covered

In light of renewed momentum in the EU enlargement process, including recent EU–Western Balkans developments and policy initiatives, the programme focused on strengthening both substantive knowledge and practical skills.

Core topics included:

• The history of European integration;
• EU institutions and decision-making processes;
• EU policy-making and legislation approximation;
• Strategies and challenges related to EU accession;
• Negotiation techniques relevant to the enlargement process;
• Communication skills for public officials working in EU-related fields.

Impact and Outcomes

Throughout the programme, participants deepened their understanding of the EU system and enhanced their capacity to engage in EU-related policy work at national and regional levels. Equally important, the programme created a platform for dialogue, cooperation, and network-building among young civil servants from across the Western Balkans and with EU counterparts.

By combining knowledge-sharing, skills development, and peer exchange, the training programme contributed to strengthening the role of young public officials as agents of change in the EU integration process.

* This designation is without prejudice to positions on status and is in line with UNSCR 1244/1999 and the ICJ Opinion on the Kosovo declaration of independence.

Should you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us: training.tirana@coleurope.eu