https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/balkan-echoes--6256126Local Democracy). This exciting new series brings you the latest updates, stories, and
insights from the Western Balkans. Each episode explores a range of topics, including citizen
engagement, EU policy and integration, cultural initiatives, youth involvement, sustainable
development efforts and much more.
Stay tuned to Balkan Echoes for inspiring stories and in-depth discussions that bring the
region to you!]]>enSociety & CultureCopyright ALDA Podcasthttps://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/df8aa6125d77ce5efc7c31fe251c21cb.jpghttps://www.spreaker.com/podcast/balkan-echoes--6256126Mon, 26 Jan 2026 10:51:57 +0000ALDA PodcastALDA Podcastalda@alda-europe.euWelcome to Balkan Echoes! A podcast brought to you by ALDA (European Association for Local Democracy). This exciting new series brings you the latest updates, stories, and insights from the Western Balkans. Each episode explores a range of topics,...Local Democracy). This exciting new series brings you the latest updates, stories, and
insights from the Western Balkans. Each episode explores a range of topics, including citizen
engagement, EU policy and integration, cultural initiatives, youth involvement, sustainable
development efforts and much more.
Stay tuned to Balkan Echoes for inspiring stories and in-depth discussions that bring the
region to you!]]>falseepisodichttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/breaking-news-redefining-journalism-with-young-macedonian-voices--69589387In the newest #Media4EU podcast episode, meet our guests – three young Macedonian journalists – Kristina Ivanovska, Enis Shaqiri, and Antonija Janevska.

During their study visit to Vicenza, Italy, the three journalists experienced European media practices firsthand and gained deeper insights into citizen journalism and user‑generated content.

“The key is finding balance. Professional journalists should not view citizens as competitors but as partners. If we can build systems where user‑generated content is verified and integrated, it can enrich journalism and make it more relevant“.

This podcast is part of the Media4EU project, implemented by Eurothink in association with ALDA and BIRC. The initiative aims to strengthen journalistic standards in North Macedonia, combat disinformation, and support the country’s EU integration journey.
]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/69589387Mon, 26 Jan 2026 10:51:42 +0000ALDA PodcastIn the newest #Media4EU podcast episode, meet our guests – three young Macedonian journalists – Kristina Ivanovska, Enis Shaqiri, and Antonija Janevska. During their study visit to Vicenza, Italy, the three journalists experienced European media...In the newest #Media4EU podcast episode, meet our guests – three young Macedonian journalists – Kristina Ivanovska, Enis Shaqiri, and Antonija Janevska.

During their study visit to Vicenza, Italy, the three journalists experienced European media practices firsthand and gained deeper insights into citizen journalism and user‑generated content.

“The key is finding balance. Professional journalists should not view citizens as competitors but as partners. If we can build systems where user‑generated content is verified and integrated, it can enrich journalism and make it more relevant“.

This podcast is part of the Media4EU project, implemented by Eurothink in association with ALDA and BIRC. The initiative aims to strengthen journalistic standards in North Macedonia, combat disinformation, and support the country’s EU integration journey.
]]>699journalism,macedonia,media4eu,vicenza,youthfalse19fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/balkan-echoes-boosting-youth-possibilities--69588612In this episode of Balkan Echoes, our host Ivana Smilevska welcomes Dragana Karovska (HERA), Darko Kjitanoski (Eko-svest), and Ana Zarka (Epoka e Re) — three program managers leading initiatives under the regional Project BOOST.

From feminist tourism and cultural heritage to river protection and youth employment, their projects highlight how young people across the Western Balkans are reshaping civic life. The conversation uncovers both challenges and breakthroughs, while showcasing the creativity and determination youth bring to building a more inclusive and sustainable future.

This episode proves that when Balkan youth unite, they don’t just imagine change — they make it happen.

This discussion is part of Project BOOST, supported by the Agence Française de Développement and implemented by ALDA.
]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/69588612Mon, 26 Jan 2026 10:02:37 +0000ALDA PodcastIn this episode of Balkan Echoes, our host Ivana Smilevska welcomes Dragana Karovska (HERA), Darko Kjitanoski (Eko-svest), and Ana Zarka (Epoka e Re) — three program managers leading initiatives under the regional Project BOOST. From feminist tourism...In this episode of Balkan Echoes, our host Ivana Smilevska welcomes Dragana Karovska (HERA), Darko Kjitanoski (Eko-svest), and Ana Zarka (Epoka e Re) — three program managers leading initiatives under the regional Project BOOST.

From feminist tourism and cultural heritage to river protection and youth employment, their projects highlight how young people across the Western Balkans are reshaping civic life. The conversation uncovers both challenges and breakthroughs, while showcasing the creativity and determination youth bring to building a more inclusive and sustainable future.

This episode proves that when Balkan youth unite, they don’t just imagine change — they make it happen.

This discussion is part of Project BOOST, supported by the Agence Française de Développement and implemented by ALDA.
]]>2242afd,alda,boost,westernbalkans,youthfalse18fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/mic-check-in-vicenza-learning-through-study-visits--68313556
They reflect on their four-day Media4EU study visit in Vicenza. From interactive workshops and media exchanges to behind-the-scenes tours of local newsrooms, the experience offered a deep dive into European media practices and collaborative learning.


Make sure to listen in as our guests speak about the real impact of hands-on learning, mentorship, and a chance to upgrade skills. Their advice to the young journalists everywhere? Be patient, follow your heart and follow the rules!


This discussion is part of the Media4EU project, implemented by Eurothink in association with ALDA and BIRC. The initiative aims to strengthen journalistic standards in North Macedonia, combat disinformation, and support the country's EU integration journey.
]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/68313556Tue, 28 Oct 2025 15:37:50 +0000ALDA PodcastIn this episode of Balkan Echoes, host Simona Bishkoska is joined by Simona Paskoska, Matea Kargovska, and Kristijan Trajcov — three emerging journalists from North Macedonia. They reflect on their four-day Media4EU study visit in Vicenza. From...
They reflect on their four-day Media4EU study visit in Vicenza. From interactive workshops and media exchanges to behind-the-scenes tours of local newsrooms, the experience offered a deep dive into European media practices and collaborative learning.


Make sure to listen in as our guests speak about the real impact of hands-on learning, mentorship, and a chance to upgrade skills. Their advice to the young journalists everywhere? Be patient, follow your heart and follow the rules!


This discussion is part of the Media4EU project, implemented by Eurothink in association with ALDA and BIRC. The initiative aims to strengthen journalistic standards in North Macedonia, combat disinformation, and support the country's EU integration journey.
]]>723media4eu,vincenzafalse17fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/media4eu-connecting-youth-to-european-integration--67414011
Make sure to listen in as our guests share insights on reaching younger demographics, the role of social media in political engagement, and practical ways to make EU topics more accessible and relevant to youth audiences.

This discussion is part of the Media4EU project, implemented by Eurothink, in association with ALDA and BIRC. The initiative aims to strengthen journalistic standards in North Macedonia, combat disinformation, and support the country's EU integration journey.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67414011Mon, 18 Aug 2025 11:12:57 +0000ALDA PodcastIn this episode of Balkan Echoes, join your host Simona Bishkoska with guests Gabriela Dimovska from Centre for Social Development- CSD Impact and Art Spahiu from Organised Youth Association-OYA, as they explore how young people engage with European...
Make sure to listen in as our guests share insights on reaching younger demographics, the role of social media in political engagement, and practical ways to make EU topics more accessible and relevant to youth audiences.

This discussion is part of the Media4EU project, implemented by Eurothink, in association with ALDA and BIRC. The initiative aims to strengthen journalistic standards in North Macedonia, combat disinformation, and support the country's EU integration journey.]]>1721false16fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/introducing-shared-horizons--65271584
Join your host, Simona Bishkoska and guests Project Manager Viktorija Postolovska from ALDA Balkans and Project Coordinator Paul Berthezene from Expertise France as they discuss how this innovative initiative empowers youth to rediscover their shared cultural heritage.

Learn how photography, storytelling, and research on historic bridges are helping young people from six different Western Balkan countries abandon divisive narratives and build new connections. This episode offers valuable insights into how the next generation is reframing regional identity beyond conflict toward a future of collaboration. 

This project is funded by Expertise France.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/65271584Tue, 01 Apr 2025 07:25:27 +0000ALDA PodcastIn this episode of Balkan Echoes, discover the new project "Shared Horizons", Component 2. Join your host, Simona Bishkoska and guests Project Manager Viktorija Postolovska from ALDA Balkans and Project Coordinator Paul Berthezene from Expertise...
Join your host, Simona Bishkoska and guests Project Manager Viktorija Postolovska from ALDA Balkans and Project Coordinator Paul Berthezene from Expertise France as they discuss how this innovative initiative empowers youth to rediscover their shared cultural heritage.

Learn how photography, storytelling, and research on historic bridges are helping young people from six different Western Balkan countries abandon divisive narratives and build new connections. This episode offers valuable insights into how the next generation is reframing regional identity beyond conflict toward a future of collaboration. 

This project is funded by Expertise France.]]>1623false15fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/boost-your-impact-new-grant-opportunity-for-csos-across-the-western-balkans--62689600In this episode of Balkan Echoes, discover the new regional sub-granting programme of Project BOOST. 

Join host Simona Bishkoska, with Project Manager Maja Varoshlija and Grant Manager Marina Terpovska as they share the exciting funding opportunity for civil society organizations across the Western Balkans.

This episode delivers crucial insights into the application process, eligibility criteria, and the benefits of the programme. Whether you're a seasoned NGO or new to the civil society sector, you'll learn about networking opportunities, cross-cutting priorities, and the long-term benefits that extend far beyond financial support.

To discover more visit: https://boostbalkans.com/

This project is funded by the Agence Française de Développement (AFD)]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/62689600Mon, 11 Nov 2024 11:33:50 +0000ALDA PodcastIn this episode of Balkan Echoes, discover the new regional sub-granting programme of Project BOOST.  Join host Simona Bishkoska, with Project Manager Maja Varoshlija and Grant Manager Marina Terpovska as they share the exciting funding opportunity...In this episode of Balkan Echoes, discover the new regional sub-granting programme of Project BOOST. 

Join host Simona Bishkoska, with Project Manager Maja Varoshlija and Grant Manager Marina Terpovska as they share the exciting funding opportunity for civil society organizations across the Western Balkans.

This episode delivers crucial insights into the application process, eligibility criteria, and the benefits of the programme. Whether you're a seasoned NGO or new to the civil society sector, you'll learn about networking opportunities, cross-cutting priorities, and the long-term benefits that extend far beyond financial support.

To discover more visit: https://boostbalkans.com/

This project is funded by the Agence Française de Développement (AFD)]]>1428false14fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/eu-integration-and-labour-law-reforms--62357934As a part of the project Media4EU they uncover the challenges, opportunities, and transformative impact of EU-funded projects.

The Media for EU project is led by Eurothink – Center for European Strategies from Skopje, conducted in partnership with the Balkan Institute for Regional Cooperation (BIRC) and the European Association for Local Democracy (ALDA), with support from the European
Union.
]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/62357934Mon, 14 Oct 2024 11:10:29 +0000ALDA PodcastIn this episode of Balkan Echoes, join your host Simona Bishkoska, with special guest Professor Lazar Jovevski, from the Law Faculty of the Ss. Cyril and Methodius University in Skopje, as they dive into the crucial role of labour law reforms in North...As a part of the project Media4EU they uncover the challenges, opportunities, and transformative impact of EU-funded projects.

The Media for EU project is led by Eurothink – Center for European Strategies from Skopje, conducted in partnership with the Balkan Institute for Regional Cooperation (BIRC) and the European Association for Local Democracy (ALDA), with support from the European
Union.
]]>1446false13fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/introducing-the-anna-lindh-macedonian-network--61356741https://api.spreaker.com/episode/61356741Thu, 12 Sep 2024 07:37:32 +0000ALDA PodcastWelcome to Balkan Echoes! In today's episode, join your host Simona Bishkoska in exploring the Macedonian Network of the Anna Lindh Foundation. We'll discuss how this network fosters cross-cultural understanding, empowers youth, and creates positive...626false12fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/introducing-boost--60936823Welcome to Balkan Echoes! In this debut episode join your host Simona Bishkoska in introducing BOOST: Balkans for Optimising Opportunities, Sustainability and Transformation of Civil Society, an exciting new initiative to strengthen civil society organisations' capacities in the Western Balkans. With special guests Katica Janeva, Director of ALDA Balkans, and Philippe Walfard, Project Manager at Agence Française de Développement (AFD), they share how BOOST aims to empower CSOs, foster collaboration, and build stronger communities.

Discover how BOOST addresses key challenges, supports sustainable development and aims to create a lasting impact across the Western Balkan region!]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60936823Tue, 06 Aug 2024 13:29:59 +0000ALDA PodcastWelcome to Balkan Echoes! In this debut episode join your host Simona Bishkoska in introducing https://www.alda-europe.eu/boost/, an exciting new initiative to strengthen civil society organisations' capacities in the Western Balkans. With special...Welcome to Balkan Echoes! In this debut episode join your host Simona Bishkoska in introducing BOOST: Balkans for Optimising Opportunities, Sustainability and Transformation of Civil Society, an exciting new initiative to strengthen civil society organisations' capacities in the Western Balkans. With special guests Katica Janeva, Director of ALDA Balkans, and Philippe Walfard, Project Manager at Agence Française de Développement (AFD), they share how BOOST aims to empower CSOs, foster collaboration, and build stronger communities.

Discover how BOOST addresses key challenges, supports sustainable development and aims to create a lasting impact across the Western Balkan region!]]>1393balkans,csos,democracy,developement,ngo,sustainability,wb6,westernfalse11full