Events

The IISG Secretariat organized the Regional Pillar Support Group Meeting under the Western Balkans Border Security Initiative (WBBSi) on 22–23 July 2025 in Bar, Montenegro, bringing together representatives of Western Balkan partners, relevant institutions, and international stakeholders involved in border/boundary security cooperation.

The meeting focused on reviewing the results of the latest response and needs mapping exercises conducted within Pillar 3 – WBBSi, as well as discussing ongoing projects and future priorities aimed at strengthening border/boundary security cooperation across the region.

During the two-day event, participants examined the findings of the annual response mapping report for the period 2020–2023 and the biannual needs mapping report for 2024–2026. Western Balkan partners reviewed and confirmed their contributions, supporting the finalization of the reports ahead of their submission for adoption by the IISG Board.

The meeting also provided an opportunity to discuss updates from the IISG Database and review ongoing regional and international projects supporting border/boundary security in the Western Balkans. Participants emphasized the importance of timely information sharing, coordinated planning, and enhanced cooperation among partners to ensure that assistance is aligned with identified regional priorities and needs.

A key outcome of the meeting was the agreement on the draft work plan for Pillar 3 – WBBSi, which outlines priority activities and areas of cooperation for the upcoming period. Discussions further highlighted the value of the IISG framework as a platform for coordination, analysis, and strategic planning in the field of border/boundary security.

The meeting concluded with agreement on the next steps related to the finalization of IISG products and preparations for the upcoming IISG Board meeting, where the reports and recommendations developed through the WBBSi process will be presented for formal consideration.

By bringing together regional partners and stakeholders, the meeting reaffirmed the shared commitment to strengthening border/boundary security cooperation and enhancing collective responses to evolving security challenges in the Western Balkans.