The “Free Internet for the Western Balkans” project is part of a broader initiative under the EU’s Growth Plan for the Western Balkans, aimed at accelerating the integration of all countries in the region into the single market, said State Secretary at the Ministry of European Integration of Serbia Mira Radenović Bojić, today.
Speaking on Radio Television of Serbia (RTS), Radenović Bojić emphasised the project’s importance, highlighting its role in digital transformation i.e. integration into the EU digital market.
“The significance of the project is further underscored by the large number of cities and municipalities involved, and 103 of those municipalities will be in Serbia”, she noted.
“All municipalities can apply to participate in this project until 28 April via the official website wifi4wb.eu, and the recommendation is for underdeveloped and rural municipalities to participate”, Radenović Bojić said.
According to her, municipalities will receive three locations each covered by free internet, which will be determined by the local authorities.
Radenović Bojić said that, following the selection process, a public procurement would take place for a professional internet provider, who would procure the equipment and install it during the current year.
At the beginning of 2026, all municipalities are expected to be digitalised.
When asked about the covered costs, Mira Radenović Bojić stated that the complete internet equipment, provider, and service for the next two years would be covered, adding that it was not yet known whether there would be an opportunity to extend the project.
“This project will enable all citizens of the municipalities that pass the selection process to have access to information, and public services, and to be better informed about all the opportunities provided by the state, as well as to follow developments not only in Serbia but also in the EU,” said Radenović Bojić.
She emphasised that the project was funded by the EU with EUR 15 million, along with Germany contributing EUR 1.5 million.
Regarding digital information, Mira Radenović Bojić announced that, in addition to free internet, a digital wallet and identity were also planned, which she highlighted as crucial for improving cybersecurity.
She stressed that it was essential for everyone to be interconnected in order to enhance security, allowing for the free flow of information and a common euro-based payment market.
Mira Radenović Bojić reiterated that digital development was important for Serbia to adapt as quickly as possible to the EU’s requirements in the European integration process and also for its societal development.
Source: Fonet
