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Reflecting on the Success of our Regional Conference
We are thrilled to announce the successful conclusion of our Regional Conference: Enhancing Partnerships Between Ombudsperson Institutions and Civil Society for the Protection and Promotion of Human Rights. The conference brought together influential leaders from Ombudsperson institutions and civil society organizations (CSOs) across the region, highlighting the importance of collaboration in defending civic space and protecting human rights defenders in today’s challenging socio-political landscape.
The Opening Ceremony featured impactful addresses from: Mr. Naim Qelaj, Ombudsperson, Kosovo; Ms. Marigona Shabiu, Executive Director, YIHR KS, and it was moderated by Ms. Anita Cavdarbasha Korenica, Deputy Ombudsperson, Kosovo
The conference featured three plenary sessions with productive and insightful discussions.
Plenary Session 1: The Role and Collaborative Efforts of Ombudsperson Institutions in Promoting and Safeguarding Human Rights, with a Special Focus on Human Rights Defenders
This session explored how Ombudsperson institutions can better protect human rights defenders in an era of shrinking civic space and rising threats. The discussion emphasized the need for stronger, collaborative approaches to protect those advocating for human rights in increasingly dangerous contexts.
Thank you to our Chairperson: Ms. Majlindë Sinani Lulaj, Deputy Ombudsperson, Kosovo
Panelists included: Mr. Naim Qelaj, Ombudsperson, Kosovo; Ms. Erinda Ballanca, People’s Advocate, Albania; Mr. Siniša Bjeković, Ombudsman, Montenegro; Ms. Tatjana Vlašić, Deputy Ombudswoman, Croatia; Ms. Merita Aliu Alili, State Advisor, Ombudsperson Institution, North Macedonia.
Plenary Session 2: The Role and Cooperation of CSOs in the Region to Promote and Protect Human Rights
Civil society organizations (CSOs) play a vital role in advancing human rights through advocacy, legal support, and protection mechanisms for human rights defenders. This session focused on the importance of structured partnerships between CSOs and Ombudsperson institutions, enhancing responses to human rights violations across the region.
Thank you to our Chair: Ms. Marigona Shabiu, Executive Director, YIHR KS
Panelists included: Nataša Konstantinović, Program Manager, YIHR Serbia; Ms. Françeska Muço, Young Professionals Network, Albania; Mr. Ivan Novosel, Human Rights House Croatia, Croatia; Mr. Aleksandar Dragićević, Environmental Activist, Montenegro; Mr. Miodrag Marinković, NGO CASA, Kosovo
Plenary Session 3: Strengthening Partnerships – Moving from Dialogue to Action
In our final session, we tackled the increasing threats faced by Human Rights Defenders (HRDs), such as hate speech, online defamation, digital surveillance, and SLAPPs. Panelists discussed the role of security institutions and civil society in safeguarding HRDs and the urgent need for deeper, action-oriented partnerships between Ombudsperson institutions and CSOs.
Thank you to our Chair: Dr. Luljeta Plakolli, Professor, Faculty of Law
Panelists included: Ms. Meral Tejeci Çela, Ombudsperson Institution, Kosovo Ms. Flutura Kusari, ECPMF, Kosovo; Ms. Aleksandra Trajanovska, Helsinki Committee, North Macedonia; Ms. Emina Bošnjak, Sarajevo Open Center, Bosnia and Herzegovina; Mr. Dusan Radakovic, Advocacy Center for Democratic Culture, Kosovo
The sessions were filled with passionate discussions, practical insights, and a renewed commitment to move from dialogue to action. The collective message was clear: regional solidarity and cross-border collaboration are essential for building a stronger, more resilient human rights ecosystem.
A big thank you to all of the speakers, panelists, and participants for their dedication and contributions. We look forward to continuing our efforts in strengthening partnerships and safeguarding human rights across the Western Balkans.
Let’s keep pushing for change—together. 