The ceremony, held at Europe House Podgorica, brought together high-level representatives, partners, media, and citizens to honor outstanding photographers from across the region. Their works captured the beauty of nature, innovative practices, and community efforts promoting sustainability and environmental protection.

The event opened with welcoming addresses by the by Christian Steiner, Ambassador of Austria to Montenegro, Paolo Landero, Attaché for Media, Culture, and Public Affairs of the EU Delegation to Montenegro, and Laura Hohoff, EU4Green Project Leader. Each highlighted the importance of advancing the Green Agenda for the Western Balkans, regional cooperation, and youth engagement in environmental protection.

In his address, Ambassador Steiner highlighted: “Austria, through International Partnerships Austria, is proud to co-finance the EU4Green project jointly with the European Union. Together, we are working with our partners in the Western Balkans to advance the Green Agenda, strengthen regional cooperation, and promote sustainable solutions. This exhibition is a wonderful example of how creativity and environmental awareness can come together. The photographs capture not only the beauty of nature in the Western Balkans, but also the vast potential it offers in tourism, culture, arts and development, if there is commitment to protect and preserve it for future generations.”

Three winners were awarded during the ceremony:

• 3rd Prize was presented by the Media and Public Affairs officer from EUD
• 2nd Prize was handed over by the EU4Green Project Lead
• Grand Prize Winner received an eco-tourism trip and certificate from the Head of the EU Delegation to Montenegro

In addition to the winning three, the following finalists were recognized, and their works are displayed in the exhibition. Please find the Ranking list here.

As highlighted by the jury, the first prize-winning series by Marko Dimić shed light on the ecological richness of Labudovo Okno in Serbia while confronting the urgent threats of pollution; the second prize by Marija Šoškić Popović portrayed the rare balance of ancient pines on Mount Zeletin in Montenegro, standing as monuments of resilience; and the third prize by Indir Merdanović celebrated the balance between rivers, forests, and communities in Bosnia and Herzegovina. These works were selected for their artistic quality, strong messages, and alignment with the goals of the Green Agenda for the Western Balkans.

Paolo Landero from the EU Delegation to Montenegro stated: “The European Union is committed to supporting the region on its path towards a greener, cleaner, and more sustainable future. Through the EU Green Agenda and initiatives such as EU4Green, we work together to advance decarbonization, reduce pollution, and promote the circular economy. The photographs we celebrate today remind us that real change happens on the ground and that every action matters. These images do not only showcase the beauty of nature, but also the determination of people across the Western Balkans to protect it.”

After the awards, the exhibition was officially opened, inviting the public to view the winning works. The exhibition will remain on display at Europe House Podgorica until 1 October 2025, offering citizens an opportunity to explore the creativity and vision of the region’s photographers.

“This exhibition is not only a celebration of creativity but also a strong reminder that the Western Balkans are full of inspiring green examples. By sharing these stories, we aim to motivate others to join collective efforts towards a sustainable future,” said Laura Hohoff, EU4Green Project Leader, adding: “To quote the famous writer Antoine de Saint-Exupéry: If you want to build a ship, don’t drum up people to collect wood, assign tasks, and issue orders. Instead, teach them to yearn for the vast and endless sea.”.

The EU4Green Photo Contest attracted more than 138 applications from all six Western Balkan economies, demonstrating the strong creativity and commitment of the region’s citizens to environmental protection.