Mission and Vision

Mission

To equip leaders in communities in the Western Balkans with skills, tools, and safe spaces to lead change and build more equal and just societies.

Vision

A region where everyone can live freely, safely, and equally and where change is led by those most affected by injustice.

02 80

Problem

In the Balkans, many communities - including LGBT+ people, Roma, and youth, remain excluded from public life, decision-making, and access to opportunity. The European integration process is stalled in key areas like rule of law, minority rights, and media freedom, while civic spaces are increasingly unsafe, both online and offline.

Assumption

Lasting change is only possible when those most affected by exclusion and injustice are equipped to lead. Change driven from within marginalised communities is more legitimate, sustainable, and responsive to real needs. However, this requires practical support, protection, and platforms to act.

Interventions

Balkans Forward Foundation works through interconnected strategies: Leadership education for individuals from vulnerable communities, focused on skills not taught in formal education. Policy innovation, through identifying specific, solvable gaps in the European integration process and designing realistic, actionable solutions. Protection and expansion of civic space, ensuring individuals and groups can act freely and safely — both online and offline.

showing gesture by two fingers group feminist women have protest their rights outdoors

Short-term outcomes

– Increased capacity and confidence among emerging leaders from marginalised groups.

– Concrete, locally grounded proposals for policy reform where progress is possible.

– Safer digital and physical environments for civic engagement and activism.

Long-term impact

A more inclusive, democratic, and resilient Western Balkans where excluded communities participate fully and lead efforts to advance equality, justice and European integration.