Successful conclusion of the 8th EUSAIR Forum

The 8^th EUSAIR Forum has brought the Bosnia and Hercegovina’s Presidency to a successful end. With its main and key topic of this forum, enlargement, they reminded us that it is a joint topic for all. Cooperation is key, candidate countries from the Western Balkans, EU member states and the European Commission must work together to fight enlargement fatigue and transform it into a more enthusiastic EU approach. As acceleration of the EU enlargement process is of paramount importance. This Forum started an important dialogue and it’s our responsibility to keep the process of enlargement at the centre of the Strategy.

The other key topic of this year’s Forum was the question how to fight brain drain. Several events organised by youth organisations, central event on sustainable agriculture and green

rural development, central event on introduction of social pillar in the EUSAIR, as well as other gatherings around innovation and circular economy explored the possibilities for improving the situation in the EUSAIR region. Brain drain has become one of the most pressing problems in the Wester Balkans. This Forum opened the floor to young people to illustrate the challenges they face. Brain drain, sadly, often leads to the lack of skilful work force. This two issues have to be tackled together to successfully better both. But we can stay positive as the Strategy has already made a significant step in addressing both topics, especially with the commitment to introduce the new Social Pillar into the Strategy.

We can all be proud of the achievements the Strategy has made and the successful completion of the 8^th EUSAIR Forum has proved just that, together we bring changes and make the EUSAIR Region better!

More photos coming soon!