The Norwegian Government intends to intensify its efforts in the Western Balkans (Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo*, Macedonia, Montenegro and Serbia) to contribute to lasting stability and democratic development.

The target group for this call for proposals is the population of the Western Balkans. Ethnic/national and other minorities, women, children and young people will be given special priority.

The purpose of Norwegian development assistance to the countries in the Western Balkans is the development of the rule of law and stability in the region. This support has four priorities:

Closer regional cooperation, also including countries that are EU members;
Reconciliation and implementation of transitional justice;
Socio-economic development through enhanced economic growth and competitiveness, increased capacity in the field of environment/climate/energy, and increased social and economic inclusion of marginalised groups;
Good governance through support for development of the rule of law, defence sector reform, civil society and the media, minorities, and the fight against organised crime and corruption.

More information about proposals, country-specific priorities, regional/cross-border priorities, general allocation criteria and contact information can be found here.

^*This designation is without prejudice to positions on status, and is in line with UNSC 1244 and the ICJ Opinion on the Kosovo declaration of independence