SKOPJE- 20 September 2024
From September 17 to 19, 2024, CAN Europe hosted a three-day training in Skopje, bringing together 25 journalists and journalism students from across the Western Balkans to enhance their climate and energy reporting skills. The course aimed to provide participants with a solid understanding of both the theoretical and practical aspects of climate science, as well as techniques for effectively communicating on these critical topics.
The training covered a range of topics, from the fundamentals of climate science to in-depth policy discussions, such as the Green Agenda for the Western Balkans. In addition to classroom sessions, participants engaged in hands-on workshops that offered practical tools and strategies for improving their climate reporting.
Eleonora Allena, CAN Europe’s Communications Coordinator for the Western Balkans, highlighted the importance of skilled journalism in the region’s energy transition: “Having skilled journalists covering climate and energy topics in the Western Balkans is crucial for raising awareness and driving informed conversations about the region’s transition to clean energy. Their role in highlighting the importance of a just energy transition—one that leaves no one behind—is essential for building public understanding and fostering inclusive climate solutions.”
Climate science trainer Martina Blinkova Donchevska underlined the importance of accurate information: “Accurate scientific information is the foundation of responsible climate reporting. By providing journalists with reliable data and clear explanations, we ensure they are well-equipped to inform the public on critical climate issues, fostering greater understanding and action.”
The program also featured a session on the Western Balkan Green Agenda, delivered by Elena Gavrilova from CAN Europe’s partner EU4Green, offering further insights into regional climate and energy policies.
Journalist trainer Fatos Bytyci stressed the role of quality journalism in combatting disinformation: “Responsible and well-informed journalists are key to combating disinformation and dangerous narratives on climate and energy issues in the Western Balkans. Equipping the media with the right skills not only elevates the quality of reporting but also helps build a more informed and resilient public.”
Climate science trainer Martina Blinkova Donchevska underlined the importance of accurate information: “Accurate scientific information is the foundation of responsible climate reporting. By providing journalists with reliable data and clear explanations, we ensure they are well-equipped to inform the public on critical climate issues, fostering greater understanding and action.”
The program also featured a session on the Western Balkan Green Agenda, delivered by Elena Gavrilova from CAN Europe’s partner EU4Green, offering further insights into regional climate and energy policies.
Journalist trainer Fatos Bytyci stressed the role of quality journalism in combatting disinformation: “Responsible and well-informed journalists are key to combating disinformation and dangerous narratives on climate and energy issues in the Western Balkans. Equipping the media with the right skills not only elevates the quality of reporting but also helps build a more informed and resilient public.”
This training marks another step in CAN Europe’s ongoing commitment to support quality climate journalism and promote a just energy transition in the Western Balkans.
