The BFMI Team

BFMI was launched in 2021 by a group of media and advocacy experts concerned about the lack of action regarding the alarming decline of media freedom in Southeast Europe. BFMI draws its strength from an International Advisory Board, comprised of experienced professionals in media, policy and diplomacy from the US, UK, Europe, and the Balkans.

Our goal is to strengthen and safeguard free and independent media to advance democratic values in the Balkans.

Our Team

  • Tanja Albreht

    Policy and Communications Advisor

    EU Affairs | Project Manager & Business Analyst | PR & Crisis Communications

  • Black and white headshot of Vanesa Valcheva

    Vanesa Valcheva

    Research Project Coordinator

    MSc Russian and East European Studies, University of Oxford

  • Black and white image of Mano Manov

    Mano Manov

    Digital Strategy Consultant

    Digital Communications Consultant | Media Buyer and Performance Marketer

Governance - the people and principles that guide BFMI’s work

Our Governance page offers an overview of the leadership, advisory structures, and decision-making framework that help ensure the Balkan Free Media Initiative remains transparent, accountable, and aligned with its mission to defend media freedom across the region.

Learn more