OSCE boosts Albania–North Macedonia co-operation to prevent violent extremism

Online radicalization was the focus of a cross-border roundtable on preventing and countering violent extremism and radicalization leading to terrorism (P/CVERLT) organized by the OSCE Presence in Albania and the OSCE Mission to Skopje, in Pogradec, on 16 April 2026. 

The event brought together representatives from national and local authorities, law enforcement, civil society and community actors from Albania and North Macedonia to exchange experiences and strengthen cross-border co-operation. 

National Co-ordinators on CVE, Lejdi Dervishi (Albania) and Pavle Trajanov (North Macedonia), shared national priorities and insights on existing co-operation mechanisms, as well as challenges and opportunities for closer co-ordination.

Discussions emphasized the value of multi-agency and whole-of-society approaches, enhanced information-sharing and practical cross-border collaboration, particularly in addressing online radicalization and reintegration-related challenges.

Looking ahead, participants identified concrete priority areas for follow-up, including stronger co-ordination between national and local actors, continued exchange of good practices and joint initiatives to support prevention efforts and community resilience.

The event was part of OSCE efforts to promote safer and more resilient communities across the region.