COVID-19 has caused major disruptions to the Western Balkan economies and the consequences are evident in all parts of society. Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are struggling hard and looking for ways to respond to the still unfolding situation. Foresight can help to cope with such uncertainties and understand the implications for SMEs and policymakers in the long term. Lessons learned in today’s pandemic could be used to inform tomorrow’s policy actions. Furthermore, foresight can support the WB6’s Smart Specialisation Strategies as it combines participatory approach with systematic exploration of the future that go beyond the strategies’ medium-term focus.

On behalf of the European Commission, the International Service Facility is conducting a foresight study in the Western Balkans (Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo*, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Serbia). The study aims to design regional and national scenarios for 2035 that will be co-created together with stakeholders from the private sector, civil society, academia and government. The scenarios will support policymakers in creating an enabling environment for innovation policies to thrive and decide on priorities for strategic investments.

The study aims to co-design regional and national scenarios for 2035 together with stakeholders from the private sector, civil society, academia and government. The ISF invites all expert on Science, Technology, and Innovation interested in participating in this foresight study and in supporting the development of innovative policies, to take this 20 min online survey. The Survey is available in Albanian, Bosnian, Macedonian, Serbian, as well as English and will remain open until 14 March 2021.

To participate in the survey, please also see the link to the article at the bottom of this entry.

The flyer is attached.