About

Welcome to YoungBalkans, an initiative launched in January 2025 with a mission to spark constructive dialogue on the policy, economic, and social issues shaping the Balkan region. As a platform for fresh perspectives and dynamic discussions, *YoungBalkans* is committed to addressing the complexities and opportunities facing the Balkans today.

Our founder Aybars Arda Kılıçer, MA, puts the vision of YoungBalkans as the following:

The Balkans have long stood at the crossroads of history, culture, and geopolitics. In a world that is becoming increasingly interconnected, the region’s challenges and potential contributions to global development demand a nuanced and forward-thinking approach. YoungBalkans seeks to fill this gap by fostering a space where innovative ideas and critical thinking converge to explore solutions for the region’s most pressing concerns.

We are particularly focused on engaging researchers and academics under the age of 40. By emphasizing the inclusion of youth voices, we aim to harness the creativity, ambition, and unique perspectives of emerging thinkers. Through their work, we seek to examine topics such as:

– The evolving political landscape and governance in the Balkans.
– Economic development and regional cooperation in a globalized world.
– Social dynamics, identity, and cultural resilience across Balkan societies.
– The role of the Balkans in the global scheme—bridging East and West.
– Innovative strategies for addressing historical tensions and fostering sustainable development.

At YoungBalkans, we believe in the transformative power of dialogue and knowledge-sharing. By providing a platform for interdisciplinary contributions, we aim to inspire policy innovation, academic breakthroughs, and a deeper understanding of the region’s role on the global stage.

We welcome contributions in the form of articles, research papers, and opinion pieces from scholars, policy analysts, and thought leaders across the Balkans and beyond. Our goal is to not only highlight the vibrant intellectual energy of young minds but also to create a bridge between academia, policymaking, and the public sphere.

Join us in shaping the future of the Balkans—one discussion at a time. Together, we can build a stronger, more resilient region that thrives within the global community.