SerbiaOwnership & classification
Founded: 2004
Ownership
Balkan Insight is the flagship publication of the Balkan Investigative Reporting Network (BIRN), founded in 2004/2005. BIRN is a network of independent, non-profit/NGO organizations across the Balkans gathered around an umbrella body (BIRN Hub, registered in Bosnia and Herzegovina); it has no commercial proprietor, party or state owner.
Funding
Funded by grants and donations from international governments, EU institutions, foundations and charitable funds — donors have included the European Commission, EU delegations, Austrian Development Agency, Balkan Trust for Democracy, ERSTE Foundation, Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung and Rockefeller Brothers Fund.
Affiliation & stance
BIRN/Balkan Insight is a non-profit investigative outlet that is independent of any party, government or business owner, so it is INDEPENDENT; it explicitly promotes press freedom, human rights and accountability across the region. (Note: heavy reliance on Western donor funding is its main editorial-influence consideration, not party/state control.)
Editorial lean
- Our estimate
- Center
- Measured from coverage
- Centerbased on 129
85/100
Factual
84/100
Objective
154
Articles
154
reports
Top stories
Most covered right now
Tusk: Hungary is right - Ukraine can't take the shortcut to the EU, and the Western Balkans can't
The late singer had a special relationship with Kaliopa and Tijana Dapčević, and this year he performed at Eurovision!
New spins on Serbia, in the extended hand they see hybrid threats and attacks
Serbian NGOs Urge UN Probe Into ‘Sound Cannon’ Claims
Terror has no end! A one-month detention has been set for Serbs arrested in the area around Strpci and Gnjilan
IRAN RECONSTANTED TO HARD TALKS EDIAS RAME: Here's what they say about the allegations that they're behind protests in Albania
Bogusław Chrabota: Gdansk is a moment of business sobriety for Ukraine
(FOTO, VIDEO) KUŠNEROV I IVANKIN LUKSUZ OD 4 MILIJARDE ZAPALIO ALBANIJU! Ovo se nije desilo od pada komunizma: Rama se bori za opstanak dok se "FLAMINGO REVOLUCIJA" širi
Romania's political crisis deepens: Parliament rejects new government
Recent coverage
Sudan's RSF closes in on Al Obeid as UN warned of imminent atrocities
Sudan's Rapid Support Forces (RSF), a paramilitary group, is advancing toward Al Obeid in the North Kordofan region, which is currently held by the Sudanese army. The city has experienced significant disruptions due to RSF drone strikes targeting both military and civilian infrastructure, including the main power station, leading to power outages, water shortages, and hospital operations being affected. Residents report that life remains mostly normal despite these challenges, though fuel shortages persist after attacks on gas stations. Videos circulating online show RSF fighters claiming they will capture Al Obeid within days. Al Obeid is strategically important as it houses the army's 5th Infantry Division and serves as a major commercial hub. Losing this city would be a significant setback for the army, similar to their previous loss of El Fasher in Darfur, which led to widespread atrocities by the RSF. In response, multiple countries, including Norway, Britain, France, and Germany, have raised concerns at the UN Human Rights Council, warning of potential large-scale atrocities if the RSF escalates its assault on Al Obeid.
Popular Turkish Comedian Arrested for Insulting President and Islam
Turkish comedian Deniz Goktas has been arrested on charges of insulting President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and mocking Muslim values during his stand-up performances. The arrest comes amid ongoing tensions between the Turkish government and critics who challenge the ruling party's policies and religious norms. Goktas' comedy routines reportedly included jokes targeting the president and Islamic traditions, which authorities argue violate laws against blasphemy. This incident reflects broader concerns about freedom of speech and artistic expression in Turkey, where such cases often lead to legal action against dissenting voices.
Week in Review: Hopes, Schemes and Stand-Offs
This week's review by Balkan Insight highlights contrasting situations across the region, where some nations express optimism about potential near-future EU membership, while others continue to face stagnation and unresolved conflicts. The article compiles BIRN's premium stories, indicating ongoing challenges and political standoffs in various areas. It reflects the diverse dynamics within the region, showcasing both aspirations and persistent issues.
Kosovo Court Finds Bosniak Guilty of War Crimes After Retrial
A retrial in a Kosovo court has upheld the 12-year prison sentence of Ekrem Bajrovic, a Bosniak accused of committing war crimes against ethnic Albanian civilians in the Istog/Istok area. The verdict includes charges of beatings, torture, and killings during the conflict. The case highlights ongoing legal proceedings related to wartime atrocities in the region. The ruling underscores the continued pursuit of justice for victims of past conflicts.
Moldova PM Steps Down Abruptly as Corruption Scandals Unfold
Prime Minister Alexandru Munteanu of Moldova has abruptly resigned, adding to political instability in the country. His resignation comes amid ongoing high-profile corruption scandals that threaten the credibility of Moldova's pro-European government. The situation highlights growing concerns over governance and transparency within the administration. The timing of his departure suggests potential internal pressures or external scrutiny related to allegations of misconduct.
ARTE Europe Weekly: EU States’ Dilemmas About Crackdowns on Youth Crime
The article discusses rising youth crime across several European countries and highlights the debate over whether to lower the age of criminal responsibility and increase the use of incarceration for minors. Some governments are considering stricter measures in response to increasing juvenile offenses, while others are cautious about the implications of such policies. The discussion reflects broader concerns about public safety, justice reform, and the impact of punitive approaches on young offenders.
Democracy Digest: Orban-Era Official Investigated, While Pride Returns to Budapest
The article covers several developments across Eastern Europe. In Hungary, an official from the Orban era is under investigation, while Pride Month events return to Budapest. Meanwhile, Poland expresses concerns about potential Russian military activity in the Baltic states, referring to 'little green men'—a term often used to describe unmarked troops. In the Czech Republic, tensions persist between the president and the government. Additionally, Slovakia faces challenges due to a severe heatwave testing its infrastructure and emergency response capabilities.
In Bosnia, War Crimes Compensation Failing Victims – But Not Those Acquitted
The article highlights disparities in war crimes compensation in Bosnia and Herzegovina, where individuals acquitted of war crimes have received significantly more financial support compared to the survivors of war crimes. Survivors often face prolonged waits and frequently do not receive any reparations. This situation underscores systemic issues in the distribution of aid and raises concerns about justice and accountability.
Officials Without Integrity Are ‘Eroding North Macedonia’s System’
Gordan Georgiev, through his organization, argues that the lack of personal accountability among public officials in North Macedonia is undermining the country's institutional credibility and public trust. He emphasizes that integrity is essential for building reliable governance structures. The issue highlights concerns over corruption and ethical standards within the public sector, which could affect the stability and effectiveness of government operations. This discussion comes amid ongoing efforts to reform public administration and enhance transparency.
Vlada Kosova: Vučić izjavama o Radoičiću ohrabruje napade na kosovske policajce
The Government of Kosovo has stated that Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić's comments about Milan Radoičić, who is wanted by Interpol for his role in an armed attack on Kosovan police in Bajgora, encourage attacks against Kosovan officers. Radoičić took responsibility for the attack, which resulted in the death of a Kosovan officer and three Serbian attackers, but remains free in Serbia with a registered residence in Belgrade. Serbia has not issued any charges against him, despite Interpol's red notice issued at Kosovo's request through UNMIK. Kosovo claims the attack was terrorist and holds Serbia responsible, while Serbia denies involvement. The Kosovan Special Prosecution has indicted Radoičić as the leader of a terrorist group, with three individuals already sentenced this year. Kosovo has repeatedly requested Serbia to extradite Radoičić for justice.
Protesters Detained, Police Injured in Clashes Outside Albanian Parliament
Protesters clashed with police outside the Albanian parliament during an anti-government rally, resulting in injuries to several police officers and the detention of at least 18 demonstrators. The event highlights ongoing tensions between protesters and law enforcement, though specific motivations behind the protest and broader political context are not detailed in the report.
Uhapšeno više političara u Iraku zbog optužbi za korupciju
Several politicians were arrested in Iraq early on June 28, 2026, on corruption charges, according to local media reports. The arrests followed statements by former deputy oil minister Adnan al-Dulaimi, who was himself arrested in May. Security forces sealed off entrances to Baghdad's Green Zone, where government institutions and embassies are located, and conducted raids. According to a report by the Associated Press (AP), seven individuals were arrested, including five MPs. Some of those detained belonged to the political bloc of former Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sadr. Al-Sadr's bloc had won the most seats in the November 2023 parliamentary elections but later withdrew from the Coordination Framework, a coalition of Iran-aligned Shia parties that brought them to power, over disagreements regarding the preferred prime minister candidate. He was replaced by businessman Ali al-Zaidi, who received approval from the United States. Corruption charges in Iraq often intertwine with struggles for influence and control.
North Macedonia Election Law Blocked by Row Over Diaspora E-Voting
North Macedonia's proposed election law, which would enable diaspora voters to cast ballots electronically, has faced significant opposition. The proposal has triggered thousands of amendments from opposition parties, who argue that the absence of proper safeguards could result in election fraud. Concerns over security, transparency, and potential manipulation of electronic voting systems have led to intense debate among lawmakers. The controversy highlights tensions around electoral integrity and the challenges of implementing new voting technologies in a politically divided environment.
Overlooked
Under-reported & one-sided
