With vibrant energy, insightful discussions, and practical knowledge exchange, the SELDI network – hosted by MCIC – held the kick-off event for SELDI’s Small Grants Programme, titled “Empowering Change: Anti-Corruption Advocacy and Policy Impact” from 14 to 16 April 2025 in Skopje. A highlight of the event was the high-level meeting, “Fight Against Corruption: Innovations Against Illicit Power,” held on 15 April. The three-day gathering brought together over 30 representatives from civil society organizations – SELDI’s grantees – as well as partner organizations from all six Western Balkan countries and Bulgaria.
The opening day focused on building the practical capacities of civil society organizations. Sessions covered topics such as effective media communication, partnership development, resource mobilization, advocacy, and influencing public policy. Participants introduced their organizations and outlined their anti-corruption initiatives under the SELDI Small Grants Programme. These introductions offered valuable insights into the scope of regional efforts, helping participants better understand each other’s work and inspiring potential synergies, partnerships, and future collaboration across the network.
Day two featured the high-level meeting, where participants engaged in dialogue on the systemic challenges of state capture and ilicit financial flows in the region. The discussions bridged local initiatives with broader regional and global policy trends, equipping SELDI’s partners and grantees with strategic knowledge to enhance the effectiveness of their work. Civil society organizations also gained perspectives on international anti-corruption trends, donor priorities, and how shifting geopolitical landscapes are shaping policies, economies, and the EU accession path.
On the final day, the focus turned to SELDI’s methodologies for assessing and combating corruption and state capture. The training provided hands-on guidance on crafting impactful policy documents and emphasized how research and evidence can be transformed into actionable reforms. Discussions also explored ways to translate analytical findings into tangible change within national and regional frameworks.
Throughout the event, participants not only acquired new skills and insights but also exchanged experiences and best practices. These interactions laid the groundwork for a vibrant platform of like-minded organizations committed to transparency, integrity, and accountability. Looking ahead, this network is poised to play a vital role in building a more resilient and transparent region.
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