18/04/2023
KCSS marked its 15th anniversary as the leading think tank in the security sector in Kosovo and the Western Balkans.
In the framework of its anniversary, KCSS organized a regional event on the most contemporary trends to regional security dynamics in the Western Balkans within the context of the EU integration of Western Balkan countries as the ultimate goal towards long-term peace and security in the region.
Through three panel discussions, this event fostered and raised discussions on the most topical regional security related issues, such as EU integration and regional cooperation, good governance and rule of law in terms of fighting corruption and organized crime in the Western Balkan countries, women in the security sector and the prevention of gender-based violence from a security perspective, as well as emerging threats and malign influences in the Western Balkans.
The conference started with a speech by the President of the Republic of Kosovo, H.E. Dr. Vjosa Osmani, who congratulated KCSS and acknowledged its work in the security sector in the last 15 years. The President discussed the Democratic Resilience and the Security Sector.
The first panel discussed Regional Cooperation & Euro-Atlantic Integration: Challenges & Opportunities. This panel discussion thoroughly analyzed the challenges and opportunities for regional cooperation, as well as the potential for EU membership and NATO integration among the Western Balkan countries.
The second panel talked about Western Balkans’ Security Challenges after the War in Ukraine: Can the Region Build a Joint Agenda. It openly examined whether the Western Balkans can establish a joint agenda in response to Russia's aggression toward Ukraine. It also addressed the challenges posed by Russian interference in the region, the importance of resolving bilateral issues, the potential benefits of NATO membership, and how the Western Balkan countries can work together to address security concerns and promote stability.
The last panel was held under the topic of Gender Lens in Security Sector. By advocating for greater gender-based inclusion in the security sector, the panel addressed the existing disparities between men and women and promoted equitable access to security for all.
The conference was attended by distinguished experts, panelists and speakers representing state institutions, international organizations, civil society organizations, think tanks, academia, and media.
