Week in Review: Hopes, Dreams and Reality Checks in 2026
As the new year gets off to a cold start in the region, our selection of Balkan Insight Premium stories takes a look at the high expectations and sobering realities…
Democracy Digest: Slovaks Bridle at ‘Hungarians Living in Felvidek’ Phrase
Elsewhere, Hungary sets general election date for April 12; new Czech government faces interminable vote of confidence; and Poland successfully repels largest cyberattack on energy infrastructure in years. KAYNAK: Balkan…
‘Where is My Brother?’ Misidentification of Missing Reopens Bosnian War Wounds
Dzemila Hodzic thought she had buried her brother 30 years ago – but now knows the grave did not contain his remains. She is not the only one to suffer…
Albanian Mystery ‘Journalist’ Sparks Suspicion with Pro-Govt Articles
Opinion articles under the pseudonym ‘Endri Kajsiu’ have for years promoted pro-government narratives in the Albanian media – leading some to wonder if the author could even be the prime…
Kosovo in 2026: Internal Stability Needed Amid Changing Global Order
Vetevendosje’s recent election win might end Kosovo’s political gridlock but the country must step up reforms and adapt to a more turbulent world, experts warn. KAYNAK: Balkan Insight
How My Local Football Club Became a Casualty of Bosnia’s War
As a young man in the 1990s, Vladan Lausevic saw his beloved football club in the town of Teslic ripped apart by inter-ethnic conflict, leading him on a path of…
Letter from Brussels: A Chill Wind Blows from Trump’s America
The US president’s combative demands to take over Greenland have spooked EU diplomats and NATO leaders this month. In Kosovo meanwhile, Vetevendosje’s victory means the European bloc will have to…
Bulgaria in 2026: New Money, Old Political Problems
Bulgarians are bracing for the eight parliamentary election since 2021 and a vote for a new president, amid warnings that Gen Z anger is at boiling point. KAYNAK: Balkan Insight
North Macedonia Village Carnival Mixes Ancient Tradition With Modern Satire
Part pagan ritual and part political satire, one of the most famous village festivals in the Balkans, the Vevcani carnival, goes ahead in North Macedonia on Tuesday and Wednesday. KAYNAK:…
Why Is Hungary Granting Political Asylum to Former Polish Ministers?
The Hungarian government is likely trying to curry favour with Poland’s PiS party by granting asylum to former government figures facing trial at home. But a change of government in…