📰 Balkan Insight (BIRN) · 74
ARTE Europe Weekly: Despite the World Cup Frenzy, Football Has Real Problems
The article discusses concerns about the commercialization of football, highlighting how the sport has become dominated by wealthy investors and big businesses, which threatens the fairness of the game and local football club cultures.
SerbiaRomania Steps Up Legal Scrutiny of Tate Brothers
Romania has expanded its legal investigation into Andrew Tate and his brother Tristan, alleging sexual exploitation of a woman in 2017 and money laundering through two companies between 2018 and 2022. The prosecution claims they used illicit funds to purchase property, vehicles, and personal items, as well as to renovate a residential building.
UN calls for drone regulation in conflict zones
The United Nations' human rights chief, Volker Türk, has urged the international community to regulate autonomous weapons systems like drones, citing their increasing use in conflicts around the world. He highlighted the impact of drone warfare in regions including Ukraine, DR Congo, Sudan, Myanmar, and the Middle East. In Sudan, over 1,000 civilians were reported killed by drone attacks in 2025, with a significant rise in both attacks and related deaths compared to previous years. UK Minister Jenny Chapman condemned the use of drones against civilians and aid workers.
Week in Review: Political Struggles and Elusive Compromises
The article discusses ongoing political turmoil in Turkey, focusing on the leadership crisis within the Republican People’s Party (CHP) following a court decision that reinstated former leader Kemal Kilicdaroglu. The internal conflict is weakening the CHP and diverting attention from its opposition to the ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP). Additionally, the article touches on Romania’s political situation, highlighting President Nicusor Dan’s repeated attempts to appoint different individuals to form a government.
MAJAR in just a couple of days changed the situation in Ukraine - I'm dropping these 4 words!
The article discusses Hungary's Prime Minister Viktor Orbán's influence on the EU's stance regarding Ukraine's accession process. Initially, the draft conclusions of the EU summit included language suggesting that remaining clusters for Ukraine's accession should be opened 'as soon as possible.' However, this phrase was removed at the last minute due to Orbán's insistence. The article notes that Orbán publicly claimed responsibility for this change, emphasizing his role in slowing down the process. Two European diplomats confirmed that Orbán pushed for the removal of the clause, which could be
New spins on Serbia, in the extended hand they see hybrid threats and attacks
The article discusses tensions between Serbia and Montenegro, focusing on claims made by Croatian MP Tomislav Sokol during an interview on Montenegrin TV. Sokol accused Serbia and President Aleksandar Vučić of intentionally provoking conflicts in Montenegro to delay its EU accession, while shifting blame onto Croatia. He claimed Serbia uses proxies in Montenegro to create incidents and exacerbate tensions with Croatia. The article also references messages exchanged between Croatian Prime Minister Andrej Plenković and Vučić at a summit in Tivat, suggesting Plenković delivered ultimatums whileVu
Democracy Digest: Suspect Arrested in Killing of Russian Artist and Putin Critic in Poland
Polish authorities arrested a man suspected of involvement in the fatal shooting of Robert Kuzovkov, a Russian artist and critic of the Kremlin, who was known by his pseudonym Semyon Skrepetsky. The incident occurred in Biala Podlaska, and Prime Minister Donald Tusk suggested the case might involve a political motive, potentially indicating state-sponsored terrorism. The suspect, holding a Georgian passport, was detained following investigations that previously held two Belarusians without sufficient evidence. Authorities continue to seek those who may have ordered the killing.
Croatian Far-Right Party ‘Flying a Political Drone’ into Bosnia, Says Ex-Minister
A proposal by Croatia's right-wing Homeland Movement (DP), part of the governing coalition, to strengthen the political position of Croats in Bosnia and Herzegovina has sparked controversy. The plan, which includes a resolution aimed at boosting Croat influence in Bosnia, has drawn criticism for potentially interfering in Bosnia's internal affairs ahead of its general elections in October. Former Croatian Justice Minister Vesna Skare Ozbolt expressed confusion over the motives behind the initiative.
Serbia Marks Rise in Attacks on Journalists, Report Says
A report by the Slavko Curuvija Foundation highlights a significant increase in attacks on journalists in Serbia, noting that 134 criminal complaints were filed in 2025 related to offenses against journalists. Most cases were dismissed, with only three resulting in convictions. The report warns that violence, threats, and hate speech against journalists have become normalized, undermining efforts to maintain the rule of law. The findings come amid mass protests following an incident at the Novi Sad railway station.
Online Hate Speech Erupts Ahead of Bosnian LGBT Pride March
Following the announcement of the seventh Bosnian LGBTQ+ Pride March in Sarajevo, organizers report an increase in online hate speech and threatening comments on social media. Lejla Huremovic, a member of the organizing committee, emphasized the responsibility of individuals and society in addressing hate speech and highlighted existing legal frameworks against such behavior. This year marks the first time the Sarajevo Cantonal Court issued a final verdict against discrimination against LGBTQ+ people, convicting Samra Cosovic-Hajdarevic for a discriminatory Facebook post.
Finance and Legal Professionals Fuel Money-Laundering in Western Balkans: Report
A report by the Global Initiative Against Transnational Organized Crime (GI-TOC) reveals that finance and legal professionals in the Western Balkans are facilitating money laundering by exploiting weaknesses in anti-money laundering regulations. The study, based on 89 interviews and legal data, highlights the role of lawyers, notaries, accountants, and auditors in creating a false appearance of legitimacy through inadequate due diligence. It notes challenges such as high cash usage, cross-border real estate transactions, and poor inter-agency cooperation.
After US Lifts Graft Sanctions, is Albania’s Berisha Really ‘Back’?
Albania's former Prime Minister Sali Berisha, now an opposition leader, has regained influence after U.S. sanctions against him were lifted. The sanctions, imposed in 2021 under President Joe Biden, were related to allegations of corruption. Berisha had previously challenged the sanctions by appealing to former President Donald Trump. His removal from the Democratic Party's parliamentary group caused internal conflict within the party, which was resolved in his favor by a court in 2024. However, the party still faces challenges in competing with the ruling Socialist Party led by Prime Minister
Spanish Connection: Balkan Cocaine Networks Turn Violent Again in Barcelona
In June, two men were shot dead in Barcelona, with Spanish media citing police sources suggesting the killings could be related to organized crime disputes among Balkan criminal groups, particularly those from Serbia and Montenegro. The violence is linked to the cocaine trade and reflects ongoing tensions that date back to a 2014 conflict over a drug stash connected to Valencia. The article highlights how Balkan organized crime conflicts can extend into Western Europe through drug trafficking networks.
Just a Kid: Witness to Croatia War Crime Vindicated 35 Years Later
Krunoslav Fehir, who was a minor during the 1991 war in Croatia and witnessed war crimes committed by Branimir Glavas and his subordinates, was vindicated 35 years later when Glavas and others were convicted of war crimes in a Croatian court. Fehir had been held in Serbian custody for six months before being released and reuniting with his mother. The legal process took 19 years, starting with an indictment in 2007. Fehir remains awaiting an appeals court decision in Serbia regarding his own sentencing.
NATO to Reduce Troops in Kosovo as Security in Serb-Majority North Improves
NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte announced plans to reduce the number of peacekeeping troops in Kosovo due to an improved security situation in the Serb-majority north. The Kosovo Force (KFOR), currently at 4,700 troops, is expected to decrease to between 3,000 and 3,500 troops. This follows a period of heightened tension in 2023, including violent protests, attacks on KFOR personnel, and an armed incident in September.
EU Parliament Approves Stricter Rules for Failed Asylum Seekers
The European Parliament approved new legislation aimed at tightening rules for failed asylum seekers and streamlining their deportation. The law includes measures such as requiring cooperation from individuals with return decisions, the potential use of detention to prevent absconding, removal to non-EU territories including 'return hubs,' and stricter rules for those posing a security risk. The legislation is part of the broader EU Pact on Migration and Asylum, which aims to address challenges related to the return of irregular migrants.
Belgrade Court Upholds Bosnian Serb Commander’s Srebrenica Acquittal
A Belgrade court has upheld the acquittal of Milenko Zivanovic, a former Bosnian Serb Army commander, regarding charges related to the Srebrenica massacre. The decision was criticized by human rights organizations, who argued it attempts to distort historical facts. Zivanovic had previously been found not guilty of ordering the forced displacement of Bosniak civilians in 1992 and of facilitating their deportation from Srebrenica in 1995.
Arson of Diplomatic Cars Adds to Bulgaria-North Macedonia Strains
Two Bulgarian diplomatic vehicles were set on fire in Skopje, North Macedonia. Bulgarian President Iliana Yotova condemned the act, calling it an attack on Bulgaria and stating it should not be ignored in discussions about North Macedonia's EU membership. North Macedonia's Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski also condemned the attack and confirmed that a 44-year-old suspect has been arrested and confessed to the crime. An investigation into the motive is ongoing.
Caribbean to Adriatic: Albanian Prosecutors Target Drug Money and Construction Magnates
Albanian prosecutors have issued 20 arrest warrants and seized over 100 million euros in assets as part of an investigation into alleged drug money flows linked to major construction projects in Albania. The probe includes a resort promoted by relatives of Donald Trump. Investigations revealed meetings between Albanian individuals and Artur Shehu, a man based in Florida, discussing cocaine trafficking, land deals, and development projects. These meetings took place on the Caribbean island of Aruba in 2019.
Romania’s Democracy is Not Broken, and That’s Causing Problems
The article discusses Romania's ongoing political instability, focusing on the recent nomination of Adrian Vestea as prime minister and the challenges in forming a stable government. It argues that Romania's democracy is not failing in the traditional sense—unlike countries such as Hungary or Serbia—but rather faces unique institutional challenges where existing democratic structures are being used in ways that hinder effective governance. The piece highlights the role of the Social Democratic Party (PSD) in withdrawing support for the current prime minister, contributing to the political grid
Hungary PM’s Euro Pledge to Test Public Appetite for Reform – And His Popularity
Hungary's new government, led by Prime Minister Peter Magyar's Tisza party, has made several symbolic moves since its election on April 12, including flying the EU flag over Parliament and appointing a visually impaired person as social affairs minister. However, the government's plan to join the eurozone by 2030–2033 faces challenges, as it requires economic reforms that may be unpopular with both the government and the public. A comparison to a 'marathon' highlights the difficulty of implementing such changes. Public support for the euro in Hungary remains high at 75 percent.
Kosovo Cannot Vote Its Way out of Its Political Crisis
Kosovo held its third parliamentary election in 16 months, with Prime Minister Albin Kurti's party Vetevendosje winning again but with a reduced share of the vote. The opposition made modest gains, but no major shifts occurred. Voter turnout reached a historic low of 37%, indicating public disillusionment with the electoral process. The article attributes the ongoing political crisis to a structural mismatch between Kosovo's constitutional framework, which encourages coalition governance, and the behavior of political parties.
Croatia Eyes ‘Secret’ Yugoslav Airbase as New Node in EU Asylum Architecture
The article discusses the historical significance of the Zeljava Military Airbase, a secret Yugoslav airbase located under the Pljesevica mountain, which was abandoned during the Yugoslav Wars. The base was constructed to house up to 58 fighter jets and was later damaged by the Yugoslav People's Army to prevent its use by Croatian or Bosnian forces. The article includes an interview with Pave Zivkovic, a former aircraft mechanic who worked at the base.
Seljimi was sentenced to six years in prison for alleged spying for Serbia and BIA
Hisri Seljimi was sentenced to six years in prison by the Basic Court in Pristina for alleged espionage in favor of the Serbian Security-Informative Agency (BIA). He had previously been convicted of four years in prison for membership in the Islamic State (ISIS). The court also extended his detention. At his first hearing on September 23, 2025, Seljimi claimed he was not guilty. According to the indictment filed by the Special Prosecution of Kosovo on September 9, 2025, Seljimi is accused of continuously assisting BIA from November 2009 until his arrest on May 6, 2025. It is alleged that he,按照
Terror has no end! A one-month detention has been set for Serbs arrested in the area around Strpci and Gnjilan
Five Serbs were placed in administrative detention by the Basic Court in Pristina for up to 30 days. They are accused of war crimes in Racak in 1999 by the special prosecution office. Their lawyers claim they were arrested based on their past service in the Serbian Ministry of Internal Affairs (MUP), suggesting a pattern where former police officers are automatically considered guilty under Kosovo's judicial system. One of the accused, Slavko Savic, was reportedly not even mobilized into the MUP. The Office for Kosovo and Metohija has warned that these arrests appear politically motivated.
ARTE Europe Weekly: EU Looks to ‘Return Hubs’ to Tackle Migration
The EU is considering authorizing 'return hubs' in third countries such as Uganda, Uzbekistan, and Rwanda to detain migrants whose asylum claims have been rejected, aiming to expedite their deportation. Germany and Denmark support the initiative, while Spain opposes it and France remains skeptical. The policy has faced criticism from NGOs, who argue it violates fundamental human rights.
LGBT Pride Parades Bring Rainbow Celebrations to Athens, Bucharest, Sofia
Thousands of people participated in Pride events in Athens, Bucharest, and Sofia, celebrating LGBTQ+ rights and inclusion. In Bucharest, the far-right SOS Romania party organized an opposing 'March for Normality' with anti-LGBTQ+ messages. In Sofia, the 'March of the Family' rally, supported by religious and conservative groups, opposed the Pride parade. Police presence was heightened during the events.
Monday Briefing from the Balkans: June 15, 2026
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In Search for Kosovo War Missing, a Joint Commission but Little Hope
A joint Kosovo-Serbia commission established in 2023 to address the unresolved cases of individuals missing from the 1998–99 Kosovo war has been criticized as coming too late for many families. Halil Ujkani, whose multiple family members disappeared during the conflict, expresses little hope for the commission's effectiveness. The commission, chaired by the European Union, held its first meetings in January and April 2024. Among the missing are both Kosovar Albanians and Serbs, with some families still awaiting resolution.
From Staple to Luxury: Olive Oil Prices Become Symbol of Inflation-Hit Turkey
In southern Turkey, near Adana, Yusuf Kenan Eren and his wife Gulbin have been cultivating olives on 130 acres for two decades. The region is historically significant for olive cultivation, with olive oil having cultural and economic importance for thousands of years. However, despite winning a Gold Award for their extra virgin olive oil at the Afro-Asian International Olive Oil Competition in 2025, the couple struggles to make a profit due to rising costs such as labor, transportation, electricity, fertilizers, and packaging. These increased expenses are largely attributed to the depreciation
‘Why Me?’: North Korean Hackers Steal Identities From Serbia, Bosnia
North Korean hackers have been using stolen identities from individuals in Serbia and Bosnia and Herzegovina to create fake profiles on the freelance job platform Guru. These profiles were used to secure work with U.S. and European companies, generating revenue estimated at $350–800 million for North Korea in 2024. The identities were sourced from individuals whose personal information was exposed in a 2025 report by the Multilateral Sanctions Monitoring Team (MSMT), which tracks North Korean efforts to circumvent UN sanctions.
Can Central Europe Once Again Punch Above its Weight?
The article discusses the potential revival of the Visegrad Group (V4), a coalition of Central European countries including Slovakia, Hungary, the Czech Republic, and Poland. With Slovakia set to assume the rotating presidency of the group, there is cautious optimism about renewed cooperation among the member states. The article notes an improvement in relations following Hungary's recent election, which brought Peter Magyar to power, signaling a shift from the previous government under Viktor Orbán. This change has led to efforts to mend ties with Poland and restore the V4's influence within
"WE DO NOT SEE THE NEED FOR ACCELERATED ACCESSION OF UKRAINE TO THE EU" Hungarian: "They still have a long way to go"
Hungarian Prime Minister Peter Magyar stated that Hungary opposes accelerated EU accession for Ukraine and will not tolerate double standards in EU enlargement policy, while clarifying the government does not oppose the start of accession negotiations.
Croatian Court Upholds Conviction of Branimir Glavas for Osijek War Crimes
A Croatian court has upheld the conviction of Branimir Glavas and his co-defendants for war crimes committed against Serbs in Osijek during Croatia's war for independence in 1991. The High Criminal Court confirmed the 2023 verdict from the Zagreb County Court, sentencing Glavas to seven years in prison and others to varying terms. The convictions relate to crimes against civilians during the conflict, when Serbs began disappearing amid shelling. This follows a retrial after an earlier 2009 conviction was overturned by the Constitutional Court.
Croatia Mulls Life Prison Terms – Indefinite Detention of ‘Socially Dangerous’
Croatia's Justice Minister has proposed introducing life prison terms and indefinite detention for certain offenders, following a high-profile murder case in May.
Week in Review: Flamingos, Think Tankers and Returning Radicals
The article highlights key events from the past week, including developments related to Europe's efforts to restart its enlargement process, vote counting in Kosovo, and increased political engagement among Albanians.
Bulgarian Ruling Party Backs ‘Family’ March on Same Day as LGBT Pride
The Bulgarian ruling party has confirmed its support for the 'March of the Family,' an event promoting 'traditional' values, which takes place on the same day as the Sofia Pride parade.
Brussels Scrutinises Serbian Airline Regulation after Wizz Air Complaint
Low-cost carrier Wizz Air has warned that changes to an air transport regulation in Serbia may force it to withdraw from Belgrade.
US Lifts Albanian Opposition Leader Berisha’s ‘Persona Non Grata’ Status
The US has removed the 'persona non grata' status from Albanian opposition leader Sali Berisha, who was designated as such in 2021 due to allegations of corruption. The State Department stated that this decision aligns with US national interests.
Balkan States Scramble to Act as EU Migration Pact Takes Effect
Bulgaria, Croatia, Greece and Romania are working to implement new EU asylum rules as the EU migration pact takes effect. Right-wing groups are calling for stricter measures while campaigners express concerns over potential human rights issues.
Democracy Digest: Poland and Ukraine Seek to Contain Fallout from WWII Dispute
The article discusses ongoing tensions between Poland and Ukraine following Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's decision to rename a military unit after the Ukrainian Insurgent Army (UPA). This has led to differing historical perspectives, with Ukrainians viewing the UPA as a symbol of independence and Poles associating it with wartime massacres of civilians. Polish President Karol Nawrocki considered revoking Zelensky's highest honor, but both nations have since taken steps to de-escalate the situation, including calls for dialogue and acknowledgment of historical disputes.
Protest Memes Bring Political Satire to Albania’s Streets
Protests in Tirana, Albania, have incorporated satirical memes and placards criticizing the proposed tourist resort linked to Jared Kushner and Donald Trump's family. The demonstrations, dubbed the 'Flamingo Revolution,' focus on environmental concerns related to the development on Sazan Island. Protesters target both Prime Minister Edi Rama and opposition figures like Sali Berisha, using humor and visual satire to express their discontent.
Stray Drones, Rising Anxiety: How the Ukraine War Is Testing Romania’s Defences
The article describes an incident in Romania where a resident, Simona Niculescu, experienced the effects of a drone explosion near the Port of Constanta, which was linked to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The event highlights growing concerns among Romanians about national security and the potential spillover effects of the war into their territory.
For Some Bosnian War Survivors, Muslim Festival is Wrapped up in Grief and Trauma
The article recounts the traumatic experiences of Elvedin Pasic, a Bosnian War survivor, during the 1992 Eid al-Adha festival. Pasic describes being attacked by Bosnian Serb forces during the holiday, leading to the destruction of his home and the loss of his father. The piece highlights how the religious festival has become intertwined with painful memories for many Muslim survivors of the war.
BIRN Launches Exhibition on Wartime Expulsion of Kosovo Albanians by Rail
An exhibition titled 'Exodus '99' has opened at Pristina railway station, showcasing 48 testimonies from Kosovo Albanians who were forcibly expelled during the 1999 Kosovo War. The exhibit, part of BIRN's Reporting House museum, features an old train wagon with monitors playing the stories of those affected. The testimonies cover themes such as expulsion, life in refugee camps, staying with host families, and return. Some accounts include individuals who hid and joined the KLA or had their trains turned back after the killing of Fehmi Agani.
Political Row Flares in Bulgaria Over ‘Illegal Estate’ Linked to Ukrainian Tycoon
A political controversy erupted in Bulgaria after police raided an upscale housing development near Varna, discovering 104 newly-built homes and detaining 29 workers from Ukraine and Moldova. The site, known as the Forest Club, was constructed on protected green-belt land near historical and tourist sites. The project is linked to Ukrainian real estate developer Oleg Nevzorov and his firm KYB Corporation, which has been operating in Bulgaria since 2022. In 2025, Bulgaria's National Security Agency accused Nevzorov of money laundering through the construction sector and ordered him to leave the
Western Balkans Youth Need More Skills to Recognise Online Fakes: BIRN Report
A new report by BIRN highlights the need for improved digital literacy among young people aged 18-30 in six Western Balkan countries to better identify misinformation online. The study emphasizes that young people face challenges in assessing the credibility of information due to fast-paced, personalized, and fragmented online environments. The report calls for greater efforts from official institutions, media professionals, and online platforms to address these issues.
Serbian Police Unit Members Arrested Over Alleged Cover-Up of Restaurant Shooting
Serbian police have arrested several members of Intervention Unit 92, including the unit commander and his deputy, over allegations of covering up a November shooting at a Belgrade restaurant. The arrests are linked to suspected influence peddling, abuse of official position, and failure to report a crime. A restaurant manager has also been arrested for allegedly assisting the perpetrator. One suspect remains at large, while another individual, already in custody for a separate case involving former police chief Veselin Milic, is under investigation for weapon-related offenses.
Gamechanger? Bosnia’s World Cup Participation Could Create Moment of Collective Pride
The article discusses the significance of Bosnia and Herzegovina's national football team participating in the 2026 World Cup. It highlights how football, despite being influenced by ethnic and political divisions, has the potential to foster shared national pride and unity in a country marked by post-war challenges, constitutional issues, and social fragmentation.
North Macedonia is Splurging on Independence Parties – But Who’s Paying?
North Macedonia's centre-right VMRO-DPMNE-led government has faced criticism over lack of transparency in public spending, particularly concerning the upcoming celebrations marking 35 years of independence. The government has promised 'spectacular' events featuring international performers but has not disclosed details about the selected production company or the budget allocation.
Serbian Prosecution Drops Claim Accusing Ex-Police Chief of Assisting Killer
The Serbian Higher Prosecutor’s Office has dropped part of a criminal case against former Belgrade police chief Veselin Milic, who was previously arrested in connection with the disappearance and subsequent murder of a man named A.N. The prosecution determined that Milic was not present during the murder based on evidence such as surveillance footage, cell tower data, forensic phone analysis, and witness testimonies. Two other suspects, S.V. and M.S., remain under investigation for attempted aggravated murder. The victim was reportedly a gangland figure, though this has not been officially确认.
Letter from Brussels: Getting Creative about EU Enlargement in the Balkans
The article discusses a proposed 'process-oriented' approach to EU enlargement by France and Germany, aiming to streamline accession procedures and allow candidate countries to benefit from EU membership earlier if they meet reform criteria.
Washington’s Retreat from its Bosnia Policy Leaves Country Adrift
A report by the U.S. State Department to Congress on the Western Balkans emphasizes the reaffirmation of the 1995 Dayton peace agreement and Bosnia's territorial integrity but does not mention the Office of the High Representative (OHR). The report's emphasis on 'empowering local actors' is interpreted as favoring existing strong entities, particularly ethno-nationalist groups in Republika Srpska.
Greek Gold: From Resistance to Dependence in a Halkidiki Mining Region
The article discusses the transformation of villages in northeastern Halkidiki, Greece, due to the development of the Skouries gold mine. Once tourist destinations, these areas are now dominated by construction workers from the Balkans, who have flooded in to work on the mine. The project faced significant local and environmental opposition over a decade ago, but construction continues under Canadian firm Eldorado Gold.
Kosovo's epic election: "The biggest loser's win" - most so questionable that a new vote is already predicted
The third parliamentary election in Kosovo since February 2023 resulted in a narrow victory for Albin Kurti's Self-Determination Movement, which received the most votes but fell short of securing a majority. The low voter turnout—under 37%—and the movement's reduced support compared to previous elections have raised questions about the legitimacy of the results. Some analysts predict new elections by the end of the year. The Serbian-list accused Kurti's party of winning a mandate through Albanian voters. The ruling party, led by Premier Albin Kurti, claims this is their fifth consecutive win.
Monday Briefing from the Balkans: June 8, 2026
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Nobel Laureate Oleksandra Matviichuk: ‘Justice Is Not the Privilege of Winners’
Oleksandra Matviichuk, a Nobel Peace Prize-winning human rights lawyer and head of Ukraine's Center for Civil Liberties, discusses her efforts to document and hold accountable Russian war crimes. She highlights recent developments, including 36 countries and the EU expressing intent to join the Special Tribunal for the Crime of Aggression Against Ukraine.
Fight for Russia, Skip the Trial: Bosnia’s Legal Loophole Exposed
The article discusses Dario Ristic, a dual citizen from Bosnia who fought in the Russian army in Ukraine. His charges in Bosnia for illegal combat abroad were dismissed due to a legal amnesty provision for dual citizens. Ristic, previously a convicted offender and athlete, was wounded and had part of his leg amputated during his service. He has since recovered and returned to Russia. The article highlights concerns that this legal loophole allows similar cases to go unpunished and suggests that Bosnian law should be updated to align with practices in other European countries.
Image-Based Abuse on the Rise in Greece, But so Often Unpunished
Cases of non-consensual intimate image sharing (NCII) in Greece have increased significantly, according to data from the Greek police. Victims often face victim-blaming and social stigma, making it difficult to pursue justice. Six women interviewed by BIRN described experiences where intimate images were shared without their consent, primarily through social media platforms such as Facebook and Instagram, or on pornography websites. In several instances, the perpetrators were current or former partners.
Decade of Pride: Tenth Pristina Parade Makes Call for Equality
Hundreds of people participated in the tenth annual Pristina Pride parade in Kosovo, advocating for equal rights and greater inclusion of the LGBTIQ+ community. The event featured attendees such as Feride Rushiti, director of the Kosovo Rehabilitation Centre for Torture Victims, and included a concert by pop singer Adelina Ismaili. The week-long Pride Week included conferences, discussions, and cultural events focused on equality and human rights. A key event was the '10 Years of Pride, Resistance and Action' conference, where activists, community members, and officials reflected on a decadeof
ARTE Europe Weekly: How Botox Has Hit the Mainstream
The article discusses the rise of non-surgical cosmetic treatments, particularly Botox, and highlights concerns over black market clinics and DIY injections that pose serious health risks. It notes that due to high costs, many individuals opt for cheaper, unregulated options, which can result in severe consequences such as facial disfigurement or even death. The piece also raises questions about regulatory efforts in this sector.
US Blames ‘European Divisions’ for Failure to Elect Bosnia High Representative
The United States has expressed disappointment with the inability of the Peace Implementation Council (PIC) to agree on a successor to Bosnia and Herzegovina's High Representative, Christian Schmidt. The U.S. Embassy in Sarajevo stated that the lack of European consensus and 'European divisions' have hindered the PIC's ability to fulfill its duties. Two candidates emerged as frontrunners: Italian diplomat Antonio Zanardi Landi, supported by Italy and the U.S., and French diplomat Rene Troccaz, backed by France, Germany, and the UK. The U.S. warned that this situation might lead to a re-evaluta
Europe Using ‘Healthcare Denial’ to Stop Migrants Reaching West, Report Claims
A report by No Name Kitchen (NNK), a grassroots organization supporting migrants moving toward the EU, alleges that European countries systematically deny healthcare to migrants as a method of deterring them from reaching Western Europe. The report is based on 336 testimonies collected between January 2022 and December 2025. It claims that healthcare denial is a core mechanism of the border control system, with examples including delayed or refused medical care and deaths due to lack of treatment following incidents involving border police.
Democracy Digest: Czechia and Poland Urge Ban on Russian Tourist Visas
The Czech Republic and Poland have joined nine other European countries in urging the EU Commission to implement an immediate ban on issuing tourist visas to Russian citizens within the Schengen Area. The letter, addressed to EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas and Migration Commissioner Magnus Brunner, highlights concerns over the influx of Russian tourists during the upcoming summer season amid ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The letter emphasizes the moral contradiction of allowing Russian visitors to enjoy European vacations while Ukrainian civilians face attacks. The proposal reflects a deep
From Street Names to Textbooks, WWII in Kosovo is Not What it Once Was
This article discusses changes in how World War II history is taught in Kosovo, particularly focusing on the portrayal of Albanian and Serbian collaboration during the war. It notes that current textbooks omit any mention of cooperation between Albanian and Serbian communist Partisans, while emphasizing Albanian nationalist figures as 'patriots' rather than collaborators. The article also highlights omissions and selective presentation of historical resolutions, such as those from the Bujan Conference, and mentions the inclusion of inflated casualty figures related to Yugoslav Partisan actions
Europe’s Enlargement’s Bargain on Ukraine, Balkans, Risks Backfiring
The article discusses the current state of the EU enlargement process, noting that while European leaders have expressed nominal support for expanding the Union since Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022, there is no clear plan or strategy in place for managing the accession of ten potential new members. A senior German official describes enlargement as a necessary but unpopular geopolitical tool. The discussion has gained momentum due to Ukraine's peace plan, which includes the possibility of EU membership by 2027, prompting the EU Commission to explore various enlargement scenarios.
Slovenia Braces for Veteran Right-Winger’s Radical Agenda
Slovenian politician Janez Jansa, a veteran right-winger, has returned to power by forming a coalition described as the most right-wing government in Slovenia's history. The coalition includes Jansa's SDS, the breakaway Democrats of Anze Logar, the Christian Democratic NSi-led list, the Slovene People's Party, and the conservative Fokus. Despite having a narrow majority, Jansa's government is expected to last a full term and has already taken steps to implement divisive policies and challenge the social welfare system.
Serbia President Attends Summit in Montenegro Despite Intelligence Warnings
Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic attended the EU-Western Balkans Summit in Montenegro despite warnings from Serbia's intelligence agency, BIA, which cited concerns over foreign intelligence activities and criminal elements in Montenegro. The BIA stated it had not received a security assessment from Montenegrin authorities and warned of a high-level security risk. Vucic emphasized the importance of representing Serbia at the summit and reaffirmed his commitment to attending.
Romania’s President Taps Independent Candidate to Form Govt
Romanian President Nicușor Dan has appointed independent politician Eugen Tomac as prime minister-designate, tasked with forming a new government following weeks of political deadlock and failed coalition talks. The move follows prolonged political instability and economic slowdown, with Romania operating under an interim administration since early May. Tomac, who has ten days to form a government, has focused on issues such as the rights of Romanians abroad and Moldova's potential reunification.
Greek Police’s ‘Unlawful Force and Impunity’ Criticised in Amnesty Report
A report by Amnesty International Greece titled 'Protest is not a battlefield: Patterns of unlawful use of police force and impunity' criticizes the Greek police for using excessive force during protests and facing little accountability. The report, based on audiovisual evidence and over 100 testimonies, highlights incidents such as the use of stun grenades, batons, tear gas, and water cannons during 15 protests between February 2024 and December 2025. It notes that these actions have led to injuries, including hearing loss, burns, and respiratory issues among protesters, journalists, and law-
Osim, Dzeko and Bosnia’s Valiant World Cup Football Odyssey
Balkan Insight reports on Bosnia and Herzegovina's participation in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, focusing on the potential influence of former coach Ivica Osim and current player Edin Dzeko. The article includes an interview with Amar Osim, Ivica Osim's son, who runs a fitness and social club near the border between Republika Srpska and the Federation. The piece highlights the symbolic significance of the location, which lies between the country's two political entities.
Behind a Trump-Linked Albanian Resort Project, a Host of Murky Interests
A luxury resort project on Albania's Adriatic coast, linked to a Trump-connected entity, has sparked controversy due to allegations of murky interests and potential illegal activities. The development, which includes a fenced-off area within a protected landscape, involves multiple individuals and companies with questionable backgrounds.
Romania’s President Struggles to Name PM as Political Deadlock Persists
Romania's President Nicusor Dan has once again convened meetings with leaders of major parliamentary parties in an attempt to find a candidate who can lead a stable governing coalition. The current political landscape remains fragmented, with no single party holding a majority in parliament. The previous governing coalition, formed in June 2025, consisted of the centre-left Social Democratic Party (PSD), the centre-right National Liberal Party (PNL), and two smaller centre-right parties. This coalition aimed to counter the rising influence of the far-right Alliance for the Union of Romanians (
Albanian Protests Mount Against Kushner-Linked Luxury Resort
Thousands of Albanians protested against a luxury resort project in the Narta Lagoon area, which is linked to Jared Kushner. Protesters demanded the cancellation of the project, the resignation of Prime Minister Edi Rama, and an end to the alleged transfer of public and private assets to benefit oligarchs connected to the government. Environmental groups, activists, and local residents oppose the development due to concerns over the threat to the lagoon's ecosystem. Tensions escalated when private security guards hired by the project's company allegedly attacked demonstrators, while police did