ForumZFD | Ziviler Friedensdienst

The political, social and economic situation in the Western Balkans only appears stable on first glance. Countless unsolved problems and conflicts smoulder beneath the surface of the gradual rapprochement of Serbia, Macedonia, Bosnia and Herzegovina and Kosovo to the EU. Although the European perspective represents an important motivation for these countries to implement reforms and overcome old conflicts, these developments cannot abate the general population’s everyday worries and fears. With an average wage in the region of 300-400 €/month, particularly economic and social hardship prevail. The corruption and nepotism of the local elite not only contribute to the economic hardship, but also exacerbate the population’s frustration about the unequal social conditions. The people react to this by withdrawing into their save networks, mainly the family and, on a larger scale, their respective ethnic group. Meanwhile, nationalistic arguments and the recourse to old prejudices between the ethnic communities are fuelled. Thus conflict transformation is primarily characterised by stagnation or even regression, e.g. in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Actors such as forumZFD, who are committed to sustainably overcoming the deeply ingrained inter-ethnic differences, attempt to create a counterbalance to these developments with their work. For despite the rapprochement to the EU, the differences outlined above do not allow for guaranteed, sustainable peace.

In 2010, forumZFD and its member organisations are running five projects in four of the countries of the former Yugoslavia. 20 years after the collapse of the common 'umbrella' of Yugoslavia, the region continues to be characterised by social tensions along the ethnic lines – and this despite the rapprochement with the European Union. More questions remain open than have been answered following Kosovo’s declaration of independence for instance.

To establish peace in the region as a whole, it is important that the impact problems and conflicts in one country have on the neighbouring states in the former Yugoslavia also be accorded due consideration. forumZFD's regional office in Belgrade keeps an eye on this, whilst also managing and coordinating projects and incorporating these into a coherent overall strategy.