Representatives of civil society organizations took part in a workshop titled “Official Correspondence in English in the Process of European Integration.” Through practical exercises and real-world examples, they improved their ability to write and communicate effectively in English.
The workshop was designed to help civil society organizations take a more active role in European integration and to advocate more confidently for the communities they represent. Participants learned how to write formal correspondence that meets international standards and how to prepare documents relevant to cooperation with both domestic and European institutions.
“European integration is a shared process in which everyone has a role to play. Meeting the formal membership criteria is the responsibility of public institutions at all levels, but how successful we become as a member state and how deeply we embrace European values and standards depends on all of us. That includes, above all, the civil sector, academia, the business community, and the media,” said Maja Rimac, from the Communications and Training Sector at the Directorate for European Integration of BiH.
The workshop highlighted the importance of language as a bridge that connects civil society not only with local partners but also with international institutions and organizations. Participants engaged in writing exercises, discussed real-world examples, and reflected on the specific challenges of communication within the context of European integration.
“The workshop was very useful because I learned how to write memos in English to government representatives and to the European Union. I’m grateful to the Institute for Youth Development KULT and the Directorate for European Integration for inviting me,” said Adem Ajdin from the Bosna Scout Troop in Ilijaš.
Alongside the learning component, the workshop also offered space for networking among civil society organizations. Participants discussed challenges in both local and international correspondence, shared their own experiences, and explored practical ways to strengthen the voice of civil society in European integration.
The organizers emphasized that workshops like this are an important step in building the skills and confidence of civil society representatives, while also reminding participants that language and communication are key tools for connecting with European institutions and aligning with European standards.
The workshop was one of the events marking the European Day of Languages, which left the participants with new knowledge, practical skills, and valuable contacts to support their future cooperation with domestic and international partners.
