The Berlin Process should introduce a structured mechanism in 2025 to monitor implementation of the Common Regional Market (CRM) and the EU’s Growth Plan for the Western Balkans, according to recommendations published by civil society organisations following last year’s summit.
The Berlin Process Summit 2024 reaffirmed the EU’s commitment to the Western Balkans, highlighting economic integration, governance reforms and the CRM as key pillars for accelerating EU accession. However, civil society experts warn that without clear institutional and policy alignment, the CRM will fall short of its full potential.
The recommendations, released as part of the Civil Society and Think Tank Forum, stress the need for enhanced monitoring tools, greater accountability and improved communication to ensure regional commitments are translated into tangible results.
“Communication strategies remain fragmented, and public awareness of the CRM’s benefits is low,” the document said, calling for the creation of digital platforms that track progress in real time and allow for public feedback.
The report urges the Berlin Process to prioritise implementation mechanisms and align monitoring frameworks with national agendas. It also recommends the development of a comprehensive communication strategy to bolster public trust in regional initiatives.
On civil society’s role, the document highlights the importance of promoting the rule of law, democracy and good governance as core principles of regional cooperation. It calls on the Civil Society Forum (CSF) to focus on inclusion, particularly of marginalised communities, and to advocate for greater funding of civil society-led initiatives that strengthen transparency and accountability.
“CSF should work to empower citizens by ensuring their voices are reflected in policy dialogues. This includes promoting local community involvement in decision-making to foster ownership over regional platforms,” the report said.
While some governments in the region made progress in 2024 in aligning reforms with EU financial incentives, particularly regarding CRM implementation, the report notes that enforcement remains a critical challenge.
European stakeholders are urged to reintroduce rule-of-law mechanisms into the Berlin Process agenda, arguing that they are essential for accessing financial support under the Growth Plan.
“Rule of law reforms must be integrated with economic initiatives. Judicial independence and anti-corruption measures are crucial to securing investments and strengthening institutional credibility,” the report said.
The Berlin Process, launched in 2014, serves as a platform to support regional cooperation and the EU integration path of the Western Balkans.