As the Western Balkans move steadily along their European path, the need for an informed, engaged, and forward-looking public service has never been more urgent. This Summer School brings together a select group of professionals, public servants, academics, and EU integration practitioners from the region and beyond for four days of high-level exchange, reflection, and dialogue on the key dynamics shaping the future of Europe.

Structured around interactive lectures, policy conversations, and peer exchanges, the programme addresses some of the most pressing questions facing the EU and the Western Balkans today: What are the prospects for enlargement in light of the EU’s evolving political and economic governance? How can regional cooperation enhance resilience and accelerate reforms? What tools and narratives can help better communicate the European project to domestic audiences? And, above all, how can today’s decisions lay the groundwork for a more prosperous and secure tomorrow?

With contributions from leading policymakers, diplomats, academics, and communication experts, the agenda touches on issues such as the implications of the Draghi and Letta reports, the workings of the EU Council Presidency, the implementation of the Growth Plan and the Common Regional Market and the early integration in EU’s Single Market, and the challenges of strategic communication and crisis response in an increasingly complex geopolitical and economic environment.

The Summer School offers participants the opportunity to deepen their understanding of EU institutions and processes, critically assess regional policy initiatives, and enhance their professional networks in a collaborative and intellectually stimulating setting.

The programme is jointly designed by the European University Institute (EUI) and the Regional School of Public Administration (ReSPA), in the frame of the Italy-Western Balkans cooperation programme, supported by the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation.