The Workshop is aimed at further adoption and implementation of the Eurocodes in the non-EU countries in the Balkan region. In particular, it is envisaged to serve the following main objectives:

• To strengthen the capacities of the stakeholders from non-EU countries in the Balkan region for the elaboration of maps for climatic and seismic actions for structural design with the Eurocodes
• To facilitate the regional cooperation and networking among non-EU countries in the Balkan region towards successful implementation of the Eurocodes
• exchange of views, networking and cooperation.

The workshop is organised by the European Commission with the support of JRC Enlargement and Integration Action, CEN/TC250, Faculty of Civil Engineering at University of Zagreb and Croatian Standards Institute.

The workshop will commence in the morning of October 27 and conclude in the afternoon of October 28. The programme of the Workshop is composed of four parts:

• Lectures delivered by invited experts concerning the elaboration of maps for seismic and climatic (wind, snow and thermal) actions, and sharing mostly regional experience
• Lectures delivered by invited experts concerning the assessment and retrofitting of existing structures – prospect for European Guidance
• National presentations of non-EU Balkan countries about the progress of elaboration of maps for climatic and seismic actions for structural design
• Round table discussion regarding the progress of elaboration of maps for climatic and seismic actions for structural design in the Balkan region; drivers and barriers - conclusions and way ahead.

Participants from countries in the Balkan region (Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, Kosovo(*), Moldova, Montenegro, Serbia and Turkey) will attend the Workshop by invitation from the Organising Committee. Participation of members from National Standardization Bodies, Chairmen of Mirror TC250 Committees and members of the Working Groups, members from universities and research institutions is expected. Priority will be given to participants recommended by National Authorities.

Nominated experts from the European Commission, EU Member States, CEN/TC250 and Turkey will also participate and give presentations.

(*) This designation is without prejudice to positions on status, and is in line with UNSCR 1244 and the ICJ Opinion on the Kosovo Declaration of Independence.