Cyber Balkans 2 launches in Skopje to strengthen cybersecurity across the Western Balkans
The Cyber Balkans 2 project has officially started, launching a new phase of EU support to strengthen cyber resilience across Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo, Montenegro, North Macedonia and Serbia. The project’s start was marked by a kick-off conference in Skopje, bringing together key cybersecurity institutions, EU representatives and project beneficiaries from across the region.
Cyber Balkans 2, funded by the European Union, aims to strengthen national cybersecurity capacities, deepen regional cooperation and support closer alignment with EU cybersecurity standards and requirements amongst the six Western Balkan economies.
The kick-off event in Skopje, held on 24 September 2026, brought together representatives from the region, the European Union, eGA and HAUS Finnish Institute of Public Management. The event marked the start of the project’s activities and gave an opportunity to establish common priorities and discuss the cybersecurity challenges facing the region.
Cybersecurity at the heart of the region’s digital transformation
As the Western Balkans continue to digitalise public services and advance towards EU membership, cybersecurity is becoming increasingly important.
Governments, critical infrastructure operators and businesses are more dependent on digital systems and services, making their ability to prevent, respond to and recover from cyber incidents an essential part of national cyber resilience.
“North Macedonia has set a clear ambition to build a modern, connected and inclusive digital society. Cybersecurity is fundamental to achieving that ambition – citizens and businesses can only benefit fully from digital services when the infrastructure and systems behind them are secure and resilient. Through Cyber Balkans 2, we can strengthen this foundation while working with our partners across the Western Balkans, sharing expertise and advancing together towards a secure and competitive European digital future,” comments Stefan Andonovski, Minister of Digital Transformation of North Macedonia.
“Cyber resilience is essential for protecting our economies, democratic governance and citizens’ trust. Through Cyber Balkans II, the EU will continue supporting North Macedonia and the Western Balkans in strengthening their institutions, preparedness and cybersecurity capacities. Because greater cyber resilience here also contributes to a more resilient Europe” says Ben Nupnau, Deputy Head of the EU Delegation in Skopje.
“Cybersecurity resilience cannot be built by institutions working in isolation. It depends on strong institutions, skilled people and cooperation across governments, sectors and borders. Cyber Balkans 2 gives us an opportunity to build on the progress already achieved in the region and turn it into a stronger, sustainable cybersecurity capacity,” adds Milan Sekuloski, Senior Expert at eGA.
Four priorities for stronger cyber resilience
The project focuses on four areas. It will strengthen cybersecurity frameworks and institutions by supporting legislative reforms, alignment with EU legislation and stronger cybersecurity governance. It will also build cooperation and awareness, bringing together governments, the private sector, academia and civil society while strengthening cybersecurity awareness across the region.
A third priority is cyber incident preparedness and response. The project will help develop technical response capabilities through cyber exercises, certified training, professional networking and targeted technology support.
The fourth area focuses on cybersecurity talent and workforce development. Led by HAUS, this work will promote cybersecurity careers among young people, support internships and links between emerging talent and employers, and help institutions establish more systematic approaches to continuous workforce development.
Through these activities, the project aims to contribute to stronger national cybersecurity institutions, a larger pool of cybersecurity professionals and a more resilient Western Balkans, while supporting the region’s continued integration with the European Union.
Cyber Balkans 2 is funded by the European Union and implemented by eGA in close partnership with HAUS Finnish Institute of Public Management.
