Events

The IISG Secretariat organized the 17th Regional Network of National Counter-Terrorism and Preventing and Countering Violent Extremism (CT-P/CVE) Coordinators (RNNC) Meeting in Podgorica, Montenegro, on 10–11 April 2025. The meeting brought together WB CT-P/CVE coordinators from the Western Balkans, representatives of the European Commission, international organizations, and regional experts to discuss key developments and future priorities in the field of counter-terrorism and prevention of violent extremism.

The two-day meeting served as a platform for reviewing progress achieved under existing regional cooperation mechanisms, exchanging information on WB developments, and discussing emerging security challenges affecting the region. Participants shared updates on ongoing initiatives and explored opportunities for strengthening cooperation, coordination, and information exchange among Western Balkan partners and international stakeholders.

Particular attention was dedicated to the future Joint Action Plan (JAP) on Counter-Terrorism and Preventing and Countering Violent Extremism for the Western Balkans. Discussions focused on the draft document’s strategic objectives, implementation priorities, and the role of regional cooperation in supporting a coordinated response to evolving security threats. The meeting provided an opportunity for partners to contribute to the ongoing development of the JAP and to ensure that regional priorities are adequately reflected in its final version.

The agenda also featured presentations on ongoing regional and international initiatives supporting efforts to prevent radicalization, strengthen resilience, protect critical infrastructure, and enhance institutional capacities. Participants emphasized the importance of a comprehensive, multi-stakeholder approach involving government institutions, international organizations, and civil society actors.

The meeting reaffirmed the commitment of Western Balkan partners, the European Commission, and international stakeholders to further strengthening regional cooperation and advancing joint efforts in countering terrorism and preventing violent extremism. The RNNC continues to serve as an important platform for dialogue, coordination, and the development of common approaches to addressing shared security challenges across the region.