From Dialogue to Action: Gender Equality Forum 2025 as a Driver of Progress in the Western Balkans

Progress. Inclusion. Action.

The Gender Equality Forum 2025, held in Sarajevo, marked a decisive step forward in positioning gender equality as a key driver of regional development and cooperation in the Western Balkans. Hosted within the framework of the Berlin Process, the event brought together governments, civil society, and international partners with a clear focus: moving from dialogue to implementation.

Hosted by the Government of the United Kingdom, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Bosnia and Herzegovina, and the Federal Government of Germany, the Forum was held under the Berlin Process 2025 and marked a shift from dialogue to action.

Participants also reviewed achievements since the first Gender Equality Forum in 2024, highlighting new initiatives to combat gender-based online harms and enhance cooperation among institutional mechanisms for equality and protection against discrimination. The conclusions from Sarajevo will feed into the upcoming Berlin Process ministerial meetings, where regional leaders will be invited to endorse joint commitments.

Albert Hani, the Director of the RAI Secretariat, emphasized that the Forum reaffirms the essential link between gender equality, good governance, and the rule of law. The establishment of the Western Balkans Women Diplomats Network, new initiatives to combat online harassment, and enhanced cooperation among institutional mechanisms show that concrete measures are being taken to build more inclusive and resilient societies.

Under his leadership, the RAI Secretariat recognizes gender equality not only as a matter of rights, but also as a foundation for sustainable peace, prosperity, and integrity in the region. The Sarajevo Forum demonstrated that when governments and partners act together, progress is accelerated, trust is strengthened, and opportunities are opened for all.

As part of the broader European integration process, Director Hani reiterated that the commitment to gender equality is inseparable from the region’s democratic and social advancement. The RAI Secretariat will continue to support initiatives that foster equality, accountability, and transparency—values that are essential for a fair and inclusive future of the Western Balkans.

The message from Sarajevo is clear, without gender equality, there can be no sustainable peace, no lasting prosperity, and no inclusive future for the Western Balkans.