Policy Study: Civil Society in the EU Integration of the Western Balkans, October 2014

EMA has the pleasure to share with you the policy study: “REPORT Civil Society in the EU Integration of the Western Balkans”

The dynamics in the process of accession require  the earlier engagement of CSOs in the process of  consultations, monitoring and implementation of new  legislation. The relationship between the Albanian  government and CSOs has evolved over the years,  addressing the challenges and division of roles. This report covers six selected areas of civil society– government cooperation: effective monitoring by  civil society of the implementation of action plans  and strategies that form the basis for reforms related  to integration with the EU; human rights, including  the rights of minorities, which is of importance in the  region; migration and asylum policies; the judiciary and  justice system; anti-corruption policies and activities. The report maps the problems in each by providing  the existing framework of strategies, legislation, action  plans and other documents regarding the given area  within chapters 23 and 24, as well as the practical  dimension of civil society– government cooperation in  this regard.  Finally, it offers several consolidated recommendations  on how to enhance collaboration in each country in the  particular areas. Each section offers advice to both the  government and civil society, and the authors provide  additional recommendations to the EU, the international  community, donors, and other stakeholders whenever  they found it relevant and useful.