A New Chapter Begins: The First Balkan Officers’ Meeting in Sofia
Written by Stanislav Georgiev; current Vice President in Charge of Marketing of ELSA Bulgaria and Co-Head of OC for BOM Sofia
From 24th to 26th October 2025, Sofia became the heart of the Balkans - not just geographically, but symbolically. For the first time in ELSA’s history, officers from across the region gathered for a dedicated regional event: the Balkan Officers’ Meeting (BOM).
Hosted by ELSA Bulgaria, this inaugural edition brought together Network representatives from Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Croatia, Greece, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Romania, Serbia, Slovenia and for a weekend of collaboration, connection and shared vision.
Throughout the weekend, participants were joined by members of the International Board of ELSA, whose presence added a special touch to the event. Their encouragement and perspective reminded everyone that the Balkan Network is an important and valued part of ELSA’s international community. Their support and engagement throughout the weekend made the experience even more meaningful, showing the strong link between local, national, and international levels of our Association.
ELSA Bulgaria, ELSA Serbia, ELSA North Macedonia, ELSA Romania, ELSA Slovenia, ELSA Greece, ELSA Croatia, ELSA Albania and the International Board of ELSA present at the First Balkan Officers’ Meeting in Sofia, Bulgaria
A Milestone for Balkan Cooperation
The idea behind BOM was simple yet powerful - to create a platform where Balkan Officers can exchange experiences, align strategies, and develop new ways to work together more effectively.
While ELSA’s International Internal Meetings unite officers from across Europe, BOM focuses on regional synergy, addressing the unique challenges and opportunities of the area.
The inaugural edition in Sofia was not only about discussions. It was about building the foundations of a long-term partnership - one that transcends borders and strengthens the vice of Balkans within the wider ELSA Network. The enthusiasm in every session was palpable, reflecting a shared understanding that stronger regional cooperation leads to a stronger ELSA as a whole.
A Warm Welcome to Sofia
ELSA Greece at the BOM Sightseeing in Sofia, Bulgaria
The meeting began on Friday afternoon with a guided sightseeing tour through the heart of Sofia. From the historic streets of Ancient Serdika to the golden domes of Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, participants got to know both the city and each other.
ELSA Romania at the BOM Sightseeing in Sofia, Bulgaria
For many, it was their first time visiting Sofia, and the city’s blend of cultures perfectly represented the diversity of the Balkans themselves. Between taking photos, exchanging stories, and learning about local traditions, the group quickly began to feel more like a family than a collection of delegations.
From Balkan Brains to Joint Gains
Saturday opened with “From Balkan Brains to Joint Gains”, a workshop dedicated to sharing national projects and goals for the upcoming year. Each delegation presented their top priorities, creating a space for open dialogue and future collaboration.
From legal research initiatives to Human Rights campaigns, and from academic conferences to cultural exchanges, the creativity on display showed how diverse and dynamic the Balkan Network truly is. The workshop was more than an exchange of plans - it was the birth of partnerships, as countries discovered common goals and complementary strengths.
Branding the Balkans: One Identity, Many Stories
The following session, “Branding the Balkans,” turned creative. Participants brainstormed ideas for a unified logo and communication style that could be used for future editions of BOM - a way to ensure continuity, identity, and visibility across borders.
Discussions were filled with colour and symbolism - from mountains and rivers to bridges and bears, each idea reflected the shared heritage and hopeful future of the Balkans. The group agreed that the identity of BOM should stand for cooperation, inclusion, and pride in our regional diversity.
The BOM-pakt: A Commitment for the Future
In the afternoon, participants gathered for one of the most meaningful moments of the weekend - the signing of The BOM-pakt.
This Memorandum of Cooperation outlines the shared vision for future Balkan Officers’ Meetings, ensuring collaboration, continuity, and long-term development. The signing symbolised more than an administrative step; it was a commitment to keep working together - a promise to strengthen regional bonds and support one another’s growth within the ELSA Network.
The shared excitement was matched by a deep sense of pride - knowing that this generation of officers had taken the first step in shaping a tradition that will continue for years to come.
Dancing during the Traditional Balkan Evening
An Evening of Culture and Connection
After a day of workshops and milestones, the participants experienced the warmth of Balkan hospitality at a traditional restaurant in Sofia. Surrounded by live folk music, vibrant dances, and the aroma of local cuisine, the evening turned into a joyful celebration of unity.
Officers from different countries joined in singing and dancing, learning traditional steps and toasting to new friendships. The International Board, the Organising Committee, and the participants all shared the same tables, united by laughter and pride in what they had accomplished.
It was a night to remember - a moment that perfectly captured what ELSA stands for: connection beyond borders, diversity, and shared passion for creating something meaningful together.
A Tradition in the Making
As the weekend came to an end, participants gathered for one last breakfast before departures began. There were hugs, promises to visit, and countless photos capturing the spirit of this historic first edition.
The Balkan Officers’ Meeting Sofia 2025 was not just an event. It was the beginning of a legacy. It proved that when enthusiasm, cooperation, and friendship meet, borders fade, and ideas flourish.
What made the experience even more special was knowing how quickly it had all come together. After ELSA Bulgaria was elected to host BOM, the Organising Committee had just two months to prepare everything - from logistics and sessions to the social programme. What could have been a challenge turned into a story of determination, teamwork, and pride. In that short time, a vision became a reality - and Sofia became the birthplace of a new ELSA tradition.
Chiara Nikšić, President of ELSA Croatia, and Savena Krasteva, Head of the Organising Committee for BOM Sofia
Special thanks go to Chiara Nikšić, President of ELSA Croatia, whose vision and initiative brought the idea of BOM to life, and to Savena Krasteva, Head of the Organising Committee and member of the Advisory Board of ELSA Bulgaria, whose dedication, hard work, and unwavering commitment made this event a reality. Savena’s leadership was the heart of the organisation. Her vision turned an idea into an unforgettable experience.
As everyone left Sofia, one promise echoed through every conversation: “See you at the next BOM.”