The focus is strengthening democratic institutions
Among the major topics to be discussed by TRAIN participants in the course of the 2015 programme are: oversight mechanisms for police forces, the democratic organization of privatization processes, public participation in policy making, the fight against corruption, freedom of information, and the reform of public administration. A constant thematic focus will be strengthening democratic institutions in the Western Balkans, for this is a key factor that the EU emphasizes regularly in its enlargement strategy.
During a three-day workshop in Belgrade (April 19–22, 2015) the participants exchanged project ideas and developed strategies for realizing and communicating their policy research. The central question was, how – by means of research – concrete recommendations can be developed and how they can find the way into the political decision-making process. In their discussion with Pierre Mirel, honorary director of the European Commission, the think-tank representatives received food for thought. Mirel shared with the group his longstanding experience in the field of enlargement policy and the implementation of EU admission criteria.
The Acyronym TRAIN stands for “Think Tanks Providing Research and Advice through Interaction.” The program offers training and networking opportunities to independent think tanks in the Western Balkans. Its aim is to support civil society and to strengthen the national and European policy dialogue with regard to topics relevant for the respective country’s EU integration process.
Next Steps in the TRAIN Process
After meeting in mid-June 2015 in Berlin to review their research, the participating think tanks will present their results and recommendations in the countries of the region as well as in Brussels in autumn 2015 and seek exchange with policy makers at the national and EU level.
The TRAIN programme is funded by the German Federal Foreign Office (Stability Pact for South Eastern Europe) and run by the German Council on Foreign Relations (DGAP).
