Berlin – ESI at Berlin Freedom Week debate on the Western Balkans

Adnan joined discussions. Photo: University of Sarajevo

ESI senior analyst Adnan Ćerimagić participated in the panel Freedom at Risk: Defending Democracy in Europe and Beyond, organised by the Aspen Institute Germany on 10 November 2025 as part of Berlin Freedom Week 2025. The event brought together policymakers, diplomats, and civil society representatives to discuss how Europe can respond to democratic backsliding, strengthen institutions, and protect civic freedoms at home and abroad.

Berlin Freedom Week, held under the auspices of the mayor of Berlin, commemorates the fall of the Berlin Wall and honours those who continue to fight for liberty around the world. This year’s edition focused on political prisoners and the global struggle for democracy and human rights. The keynote address was delivered by the president of the Bundestag, Julia Klöckner.

In his remarks, Adnan presented ESI’s perspective on the state of democracy and European integration in the Western Balkans, highlighting how a credible EU enlargement process can serve as the most effective instrument to defend democratic values and stability in the region.

• ESI proposal: “Preventing violence – transform Kosovo dialogue”
• ESI background: “Scoreboard - The true state of accession - What the Commission assessments reveal”
• ESI proposal: “End the turtle race How the EU can address the crisis of the accession process”
• ESI proposal: “Offer the four freedoms to the Balkans, Ukraine, and Moldova For a merit-based EU accession process with a credible goal”
• ESI proposal: “47 again? Russia out, Kosovo in Support Kosovo’s membership in the Council of Europe”
• ESI proposal: “Abandon clichés about Bosnia: Push EU-related reforms instead of arbitrary conditions”
• ESI proposal: “No partition: Why Kosovo and Serbia must not discuss territory”
• ESI report: “Anti-Corruption Report for the West Balkans: Measure corruption in order to fight it”