Anekta’s street dives into the untold stories of the Western Balkans, exploring the lives of those on the margins, where the dream of a „Bolji Život“ (Better Life) meets the harsh realities of identity, resilience, and social justice in a region shaped by its tumultuous history.

Balkan Watchers 2024

In Dračevo, a poor neighborhood on the outskirts of Skopje, North Macedonia, the echoes of the past intertwine with the struggles of the present. Growing up in this community, a young journalist witnessed domestic violence in her best friend’s home, nationalism stirred by an alcoholic neighbor, and a community grappling with the legacy of Yugoslavia’s collapse. Despite 33 years of “democratic” elections since independence, human rights remain deeply affected, leaving the residents of Dračevo searching for justice and answers. Anekta’s Street follows this journalist as she explores the stories of her neighbors—stories that reflect the experiences of people in similar neighborhoods across the Western Balkans, from Vranje in Serbia to Ferizaj in Kosovo and Podgorica in Montenegro. Through this podcast series, she sheds light on the shared struggles and resilience of those living on the margins, offering an intimate look at identity, belonging, and the quest for a better future.