The project aims to increase transparency and accountability in defense spending and arms procurement across the Western Balkans.
Lack of transparency in this sector undermines democratic oversight and fosters corruption, mismanagement, and regional distrust. Journalists and policy researchers often lack the tools and networks to investigate these opaque processes, while public debate is distorted by misinformation and political posturing.
To address this, the project will strengthen investigative capacities by training 20 journalists and researchers from all six Western Balkan countries. Study visits to Sweden will provide insights into arms spending and connect participants with SIPRI experts and Swedish policy actors. Under expert mentorship, participants will produce and publish articles, which will be disseminated through a social media campaign, a regional conference, and a podcast series. The project will also foster long-term collaboration through a cross-border network promoting transparency and informed public discourse.