NATO Ankara Summit, culture diplomacy: Turkish music and traditional attire performances at the NATO summit in Ankara drew praise from leaders, with ensembles from the Presidential Symphony Orchestra and other groups entertaining guests at official events. EU migration rules under fire: The EU’s new migration framework and “return” approach raise alarms over biometric data collection from children, prolonged detention, and transfers to third countries, with critics warning of human rights risks. Human rights and digital life: A BIRN report says digital repression is worsening across the Western Balkans and Turkey, documenting widespread online abuses tied to fraud, disinformation, gender-based violence, and attacks on civic actors. Children online safety: Türkiye’s First Lady Emine Erdoğan urged stronger safeguards for children in the digital world, calling for transparency on algorithms and independent oversight. Albania’s workforce squeeze: An OECD report warns Albania is losing workers to emigration and ageing, with skills gaps leaving tens of thousands of jobs unfilled. Flamingo Revolution protests: Tirana’s protests over luxury development plans near Zvërnec and Sazan have grown into a wider fight over transparency and the country’s direction. Kanye West concert funding: Albania’s government defended about €4mn in state support for Kanye West’s Tirana show, arguing it protects the event and boosts tourism. NATO summit timing for Albania: NATO’s next summit was confirmed to be in Albania, but without a date—leaving Tirana in limbo. Council of Europe screen support: The Council of Europe backed seven series co-productions, including an Albania-linked project, with attention to women creators and minority languages. IVF heartbreak: A story highlights the strain of repeated IVF attempts and costs when no baby results.