In response to the increasing digital rights challenges faced by human rights defenders and organizations across the Western Balkans, the Digital Rights Summer School was created to address the urgent need for enhanced skills and expertise in this critical area. As digital technologies continue to shape modern life, issues such as privacy, data protection, freedom of expression online, and cybersecurity have become pressing concerns. In regions like the Western Balkans, where digital rights are often under-prioritized and inadequately protected, this initiative seeks to bridge knowledge gaps and empower professionals to advocate for stronger protections.
The program is tailored for professionals from Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, Greece, Kosovo, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Serbia, Slovenia, and other countries in the region. These participants share a passion for digital rights and a commitment to deepening their understanding of the latest developments in the field.
The Digital Rights Summer School is organized in partnership with key institutions such as European Digital Rights (EDRi) and the Digital Freedom Fund, whose expertise and support have been instrumental in shaping the agenda and fostering meaningful cross-regional collaboration.
The Digital Rights Summer School in 2023 and 2024 was held at the historic St. Antun Monastery in Perast, Montenegro, offering a unique setting for participants to engage with critical issues at the crossroads of society, technology, and human rights.
With representatives from 20 to 35 organizations across the region, the Summer School equipped participants with the tools and skills necessary to address and advocate for digital rights in their respective contexts. Beyond the daily sessions, which formed the core of the program, the Summer School also provided a platform for fostering cooperation among a growing network of human rights defenders. This included building connections with digital rights professionals from across Europe.
In addition to the formal agenda, a range of side events and evening activities were organized to encourage informal networking and collaboration among attendees. These interactions led to the initiation of various collaborative projects and mentorship programs, further strengthening the regional network and contributing to the growth of the digital rights community.
The Digital Rights Summer School was not only an educational experience but also a catalyst for building a strong, collaborative community dedicated to advancing digital rights. By fostering connections and encouraging cooperation among participants, the Summer School has laid the foundation for meaningful change across the Western Balkans. Through this growing network of advocates and professionals, the region is better equipped to address the pressing digital rights challenges of today and work collectively toward a future where these rights are better understood and protected.
