New Third Way and IRMA Host First Expert Roundtable on Critical Raw Materials in Belgrade

New Third Way (Novi treći put) and the US-based Initiative for Responsible Mining Assurance (IRMA) hosted their first expert roundtable dedicated to critical raw materials and the impact of Western strategies in this sector on the Western Balkans. The event took place on Saturday, January 24, at the Radisson Collection Hotel in Belgrade, marking the first in a series of three regional roundtables supported by the Open Society Foundations Western Balkans.

As global demand for critical raw materials accelerates, shaping sustainable policy frameworks and understanding regional economic and environmental implications are essential steps for the Western Balkans.

Expert Discussion and Regional Perspectives

The roundtable convened a broad spectrum of stakeholders, bringing together representatives from academia, the battery manufacturing and recycling industries, the mining sector, international organizations, climate policy experts, civil society, and institutional representatives. Participants engaged in a focused exchange on the evolving international landscape surrounding critical raw materials, key opportunities and risks facing the region, and policy recommendations designed to maximize economic and social benefits for host countries.

The session opened with a presentation by Dimitrije Milić and Mijat Kostić of New Third Way, who shared core findings from an upcoming joint study developed in collaboration with IRMA. Cecilia Mattea, Regional Lead at IRMA, actively participated in the discussion, offering insights into responsible mining frameworks and international assurance standards. The discussion was moderated by e-mobility consultant Filip Mitrović.

Upcoming Outputs

The insights gathered from this initial roundtable, along with subsequent sessions across the Western Balkans, will inform the final published study and contribute to ongoing policy dialogues across the region.

Follow our platform for updates on the forthcoming joint report and future project milestones.