The Balkans is entering a decisive new phase. Critical elections, political deadlock, and a renewed drive toward European Union membership are reshaping the region. Montenegro is leading the race toward accession, while its neighbours are also making important progress. As Brussels pushes for faster reforms, the question now is whether this momentum can be sustained.

Across The Balkans speaks to assistant professor Faris Kocan about the European Union’s enlargement policy toward the Balkans.

Bosnian football fans used the World Cup stage to send a message of support for Palestinians. This comes amid ongoing military onslaughts in Gaza and continued displacement and violence in the West Bank. It reflects a wider trend seen in the Balkans and beyond, where public sentiment on Palestine isn’t always in step with governments’ foreign policy.

The European Union banned battery cages for laying hens more than a decade ago. But in Serbia, where EU membership remains a key goal, most eggs are still believed to come from caged birds. Now, activists are taking their campaign directly to supermarket shelves, hoping consumers will help drive change.

Across The Balkans, hosted by Nadja Muftic, is TRT World's programme focusing on the issues and fault lines shaping Southeast Europe today.