The 62nd Assembly Session of the Regional Rural Development Standing Working Group (SWG) in South Eastern Europe brought together high-level representatives, experts, and stakeholders to discuss ongoing and upcoming regional initiatives, achievements, and strategic priorities in agriculture and rural development.
The session was opened with a welcoming address by the representatives of the Ministry of Foreign Trade and Economic Relations of Bosnia and Herzegovina, followed by an in-depth retrospective review of regional activities for the period December 2024 – April 2025, presented by Mr. Boban Ilic, SWG Secretary General.
Key topics for discussion include:
🔹 Progress updates from the Regional Task Force on Climate Change Adaptation in Agriculture, including methodology, current activities, and expected outcomes for 2025 (SWG and GIZ).
🔹 Detailed briefings on the work of SWG’s Regional Expert Advisory Working Groups, covering:
- Agricultural Policy Monitoring
- EU Integration Process (Chapters 11, 12, 13)
- Sustainable Forest Management
- Wine Policy
- Agricultural Knowledge and Innovation Systems (AKIS)
- Organic Production
🔹 Berlin Process discussion, led by Mr. Dirk Landmann, GIZ Advisor
🔹 Presentation of final outcomes and recommendations from the GIZ SEDRA project, as well as proposals for upcoming Climate Change Adaptation (CCA) capacity building initiatives.
🔹 Project updates:
- HUMUS HORIZON Project
- REVIVE Project
Both presented by Mr. Darko Konjevic, SWG Senior Project Manager
🔹 Insights into major SWG activities for 2025, updates on the SWG Operational Plan, and preparations for the 20th SWG Anniversary, Agricultural Policy Forum 2025, and the 19th Annual Meeting of Ministers of Agriculture from SEE led by Ms. Bogdanka Gjorshoska, SWG Senior Project Manager.
🔹 Review and discussion on the Green Agenda for the Western Balkans Action Plan and the continuation of cooperation with BMEL beyond 2026, including endorsement of proposed changes by the SWG Assembly.
The 62nd Assembly Session is a key moment to shape strategic directions, foster collaboration and build stronger policy frameworks across the region.
