We are presenting the most important publications produced under the framework of the Horizontal Facility III programme with an aim to enhance knowledge and improve policy and practice in respective Beneficiaries in the Western Balkans and in Türkiye.

With the support of the programme, a new Guide for Gender Sensitive Reporting was developed in Serbia in cooperation with the Journalists Association of Serbia (JAS). The Guide is designed to support young journalists in applying ethical and professional standards that promote gender equality in the media, as part of the educational programme of the JAS School of Journalism. Through three thematic units covering the European regulatory framework, domestic legislation and ethical guidelines, the Guide provides a practical overview of key standards related to gender equality and media reporting, while highlighting the role of journalists in countering stereotypes, promoting diversity and adhering to professional codes of ethics.

In Bosnia and Herzegovina, the programme supported the development of Guidelines for Providing Adequate Protection to LGBTI Asylum Seekers. The publication aims to strengthen the capacity of relevant institutions and professionals to respond to the specific needs of LGBTI persons seeking international protection, in line with international human rights standards. It offers guidance on identifying vulnerabilities, ensuring non-discrimination and providing appropriate procedural and reception safeguards throughout the asylum process.

Also in Bosnia and Herzegovina, a Guide for the Health Sector on Equal Access to Health Care for LGBTI Persons was published. The Guide addresses barriers faced by LGBTI persons in accessing health services and provides practical recommendations for health-care professionals and institutions to ensure inclusive, respectful and non-discriminatory health care. 

The Council of Europe publication “Limiting the Use of Criminal Law to Restrict Freedom of Expression” was translated in Albanian and Serbian with the support of PROFREX Team. This guide provides a general overview of the human rights standards that apply to the imposition of criminal sanctions on the exercise of the right to freedom of expression.

The 2^nd edition of the Report “Beyond definitions: A call for action against hate speech in Albania” (ENG) was produced with the support of the programme. This report aims to present national-level data on the state of hate speech in Albania. Although the terminology and phenomenon are relatively new in the country, hate speech remains a concern among both the general population and groups targeted by hate speech.

Artificial intelligence in the media of North Macedonia (ENG / MKD) was developed and published with the support of the PROFREX action. The study seeks to inform both policymakers and practitioners by providing a comparative perspective grounded in international best practices, while remaining attentive to the specific context of North Macedonia.