The Western Balkans Summit Against Racial Discrimination, held on November 1st and 2nd 2023, brought
together leaders and advocates to address the pervasive issue of racial discrimination, particularly
concerning the Roma, Ashkali, and Egyptian communities in the region. The Summit emphasized
responsive budgeting and governance, digital literacy, community-based services, and institutional
mechanisms to drive systemic changes for these marginalized groups.
Through thematic sessions and discussions, the Summit provided a robust platform for cooperation,
fostering the exchange of knowledge and good practices within the region. This collaborative effort
aimed at finding effective modalities to prevent and combat racial discrimination, advocating for a
comprehensive approach that champions equality in the Western Balkans.
The sessions highlighted critical barriers faced by these communities and proposed concrete steps to
mitigate discrimination, aiming to pave the way for more inclusive and equitable societies in the Western
Balkans. Additionally, the sessions not only highlighted critical barriers faced by these communities but
also showcased success stories, emphasizing individuals or groups who overcame challenges. These
stories served as powerful examples of resilience and the positive impact of addressing discrimination,
inspiring hope for positive change and demonstrating that, with concerted efforts, communities can
thrive in the Western Balkans.
The purpose of this comprehensive report is to provide governments and civil society with a substantive
and actionable plan for addressing and ultimately eradicating racism in their respective countries.
Serving as a synthesis of the major themes discussed during the Summit, the report delves into key
insights, challenges, and best practices identified by participants. By distilling the wealth of information
presented during the Summit sessions, the report aims to empower stakeholders with strategic
recommendations and effective strategies to combat racial discrimination. It serves as a valuable
resource to foster informed dialogue, promote collaboration, and inspire targeted initiatives that
contribute to building more inclusive and equitable societies across the Western Balkans.
