The IISG Secretariat participated in the eighth Regional Security Coordination Conference, held in Rome on 14-15 November 2023, focused on Security Cooperation in the Western Balkans – Securing the Future: Building Resilience through Collaboration. Co-organised by multiple entities, it brought together over 100 participants, including security practitioners from various jurisdictions and representatives of significant regional and international organisations.

Unlike previous conferences, this one explored new topics such as artificial intelligence, human security, and negotiations for EU acquis Chapter 23/24. Seven panels covered diverse issues. The event opened with speeches emphasizing the need for robust security measures and collaboration.

A keynote speech by RCC SG Ms. Majlinda Bregu,   highlighted the concerning brain drain from the region, emphasizing the loss of talent as a critical security risk. The SecuriMeter Report for 2023 outlined public concerns about firearms misuse, arms trafficking, and rising perceptions of corruption, indicating the need for better governance and public trust.

The IISG Secretariat was represented by HoS Mr. Agron Sojati. On the third panel Terrorism and Extremism, Mr. Sojati briefed participants about the latest developments regarding the IISG platform and its database. This meeting was used to invite all partners to navigate the IISG database showing the potential for better coordination. What makes the database unique is the fact that ongoing projects are placed in line with partner’s needs and their progress made. Analyses are provided on the benefits coming from the projects and emphasis is placed on more important needs to be completed in order to compliment security for the given partner, WB region, and EU.