EU and the audiovisual sector in the Western Balkans: Project evaluating the potentials for impactful engagement

The research project titled “EU and the audiovisual sector in the Western Balkans: Project evaluating the potentials for impactful engagement” was commissioned by the Cultural Relations Platform as requested by DG CONNECT – DG for Communications Networks, Content and Technology of the European Commission. The main objective was to provide insights and ideas for politicians and policy makers in regards to the involvement of the EU with the audiovisual sector in the Western Balkans. Research project was focusing on the production aspect of the film, TV and online platforms in the WB region, using desk research cultural mapping, focus groups and interviews with some of the main stakeholders as the main research methods. In the beginning, some of the most relevant theoretical and policy frameworks were discussed. Key research findings are presented, concluding with the policy recommendations. Some of the main recommendations include – development of the WB audiovisual market; support for the regional networking platform; creation of Western Balkans MEDIA Fund; development of the WB mobility fund; regulating regional inequalities; and supporting capacity building in the audiovisual industry in the Western Balkans.