Recent "Monday Briefing from the Balkans" reports highlight a range of significant events across the region. From commemorations of wartime events and diplomatic disputes to corruption investigations and the launch of new educational institutions, the Balkans have seen a dynamic period. Cultural festivals and national holidays also featured prominently, showcasing the region’s rich heritage and contemporary artistic expressions.

Key Takeaways

  • Serbia commemorates victims of Operation Storm, while its leaders face corruption allegations.
  • Croatia urges an end to arms trade with Israel, amidst a dispute with Montenegro over a naval ship.
  • Turkey is investigating a large-scale fake diploma scandal.
  • Greece is set to open six new private universities.
  • Cultural events, including music and film festivals, took place in Kosovo.

Serbia Grapples with War Commemorations and Corruption Allegations

Serbia recently held a ceremony in Sremski Karlovci to commemorate the victims of Croatia’s 1995 Operation Storm. Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić and Republika Srpska President Milorad Dodik used the occasion to criticize a recent Bosnian appeal court verdict upholding Dodik’s conviction. Concurrently, a significant corruption probe has led to the detention of thirteen individuals, including former ministers Tomislav Momirović and Goran Vesić, in connection with the upgrade of Serbian railway infrastructure. This investigation follows a tragic incident where a canopy collapse at Novi Sad railway station killed 16 people, sparking public protests.

Croatia’s Stance on Arms Trade and Diplomatic Disputes

Croatian President Zoran Milanović has called for an immediate halt to the country’s arms trade with Israel. His office stated that military cooperation with Israel had already been ceased in May. However, Prime Minister Andrej Plenković and the Ministry of Defence have asserted that no such cooperation currently exists or is planned. Adding to regional tensions, Montenegro’s Defence Ministry has ignited a diplomatic row with Croatia by introducing new badges for the crew of the training ship Jadran, which Croatia claims as its own property. Croatia has lodged a protest note, deeming the move provocative.

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Turkey Investigates Widespread Diploma Forgery

An extensive investigation is underway in Turkey targeting a group accused of issuing fraudulent university diplomas, licenses, and official documents. The syndicate allegedly gained unauthorized access to state officials’ e-signatures and other online government systems. The Ministry of the Environment confirmed that individuals involved in producing and using these forged e-signatures have been identified through their IP addresses, and a criminal complaint has been filed. The scandal has drawn public ire, particularly as fake diplomas have been found in the possession of professionals in fields such as academia, pharmacy, engineering, and psychology.

Greece Expands Higher Education with New Private Universities

Starting in October for the 2025/26 academic year, Greece will see the establishment of six new private universities. This development follows protests from students and lecturers who fear a devaluation of degrees and increased reliance on wealth for access to higher education. Universities from the UK, including the University of Nicosia, the University of York, Keele University, the British Open University, London Metropolitan University, and Derby University, have received accreditation to operate in Greece. Five other applications for private universities were rejected.

Cultural Highlights in Kosovo and National Holidays

Kosovo celebrated its vibrant cultural scene with the Sunny Hill music festival in Pristina, headlined by UK-born pop star Dua Lipa, who recently received Kosovo citizenship. Additionally, the annual international documentary and short film festival DokuFest commenced in Prizren. Meanwhile, North Macedonia commemorated its national holiday, Ilinden, marking the 1903 uprising against Ottoman rule and the 1944 establishment of the Anti-Fascist Assembly of National Liberation of Macedonia (ASNOM), which laid the groundwork for Macedonian statehood.

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Albanian Public Broadcaster Faces Financial Crisis

The new head of Albanian Radio and Television, Eni Vasili, has appealed to the Ministry of Finance for additional funds, citing severe financial difficulties. The shortfall has been exacerbated by legal cases filed by former employees who were dismissed by the previous director. The broadcaster faces substantial compensation payments to these former workers, with some cases still pending.

Sources

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