Major Milestone: Over 60 Partners Unite for Climate Action Across the Western Balkans
The Climate Bridges Network fosters collaboration between civil society organisations (CSOs), government bodies and private sector actors to address gaps in climate policy implementation. The network has now achieved a significant milestone. It unites over 60 organisations from eight countries in Southeastern Europe who are all committed to advancing climate action in the Western Balkans region.
This expanding alliance represents a powerful coalition of civil society organizations, research institutions, public authorities, and social enterprises that are dedicated to creating sustainable climate solutions. The Network’s growth from its initial formation of 4 partners to over 60 partners demonstrate the increasing recognition of the need for collaborative, cross-border climate action in the region.
“The strength of our Network lies in its diversity and shared commitment,” said Zana Vokopola, Executive Director of the Urban Research Institute (URI), who leads the Climate Bridges Network. “By bringing together stakeholders from different sectors and countries, we’re creating a platform where local climate initiatives can be amplified, and regional solutions can emerge.”
Bridging Gaps in Climate Action
The Western Balkans region has long faced challenges including environmental degradation, fragmented policies, and limited coordination in climate efforts. The Climate Bridges Network specifically aims to bridge these gaps by fostering transnational cooperation and facilitating collaboration across borders.
The Network’s mission centers on three key areas that are crucial for the region’s climate future:
- Decarbonisation efforts that support the transition to clean energy
- Pollution reduction initiatives that improve environmental quality
- Biodiversity protection programs that preserve the region’s natural heritage
Supporting the Green Agenda for the Western Balkans
As the Network continues to grow, its primary goal remains supporting the Green Agenda for the Western Balkans alongside other international climate frameworks. Through regular exchange of ideas, joint advocacy efforts, and comprehensive capacity-building initiatives, the Network empowers local actors to take collective action that creates meaningful impact.
The collaborative approach focuses on ensuring that climate solutions are rooted in local realities while connecting to broader regional strategies. This means that communities across the Western Balkans can access resources, expertise, and partnerships that might otherwise be unavailable to individual organizations working in isolation.
Get to Know Our Network Partners
The heart of the Climate Bridges Network lies in its growing alliance of partners across the region. Each organization brings unique insights, expertise, and a shared vision for climate resilience. Explore our full list of partners and learn more about who’s involved.
A Vision for Regional Climate Resilience
Looking ahead, the Climate Bridges Network envisions a future where climate action in the Western Balkans is characterized by:
- Cross-border cooperation as the standard approach to environmental challenges
- Inclusive participation where diverse stakeholders work together effectively
- Community empowerment that ensures local voices shape climate solutions
- Policy influence that reflects the needs and priorities of the region
Strengthening Regional Solidarity
The achievement of over 60 partners represents more than just numbers, it demonstrates growing regional solidarity around climate action. Each new member organization brings unique expertise, resources, and perspectives that strengthen the collective capacity to address the interconnected challenges of climate change.
As the Network continues to evolve, it remains committed to creating an inclusive, collaborative space where organizations can tackle climate change in ways that are equitable, sustainable, and locally driven. The member organizations play a central role in shaping the Network’s direction, ensuring it remains a dynamic and adaptable force for change in Southeastern Europe.
Join the Movement
The Climate Bridges Network welcomes new organizations to join this growing alliance. Whether you’re a civil society organization, research institution, public authority, or social enterprise dedicated to climate action, your participation can strengthen the collective impact of regional climate efforts.
Learn more about membership opportunities and how to get involved by visiting our website: https://climate-bridges.com/
Together, we’re building bridges, not just between countries, but between communities, ideas, and solutions that will shape a more sustainable future for the Western Balkans.
The Climate Bridges Network continues to expand its reach and impact, connecting climate champions across Southeastern Europe in the shared mission of creating lasting environmental change through collaborative action.