Integrating the Western Balkans into the EU: Overcoming Mutual Misperceptions

The differences in perceptions between the Western Balkan politicians and citizens and the EU member states are a major stumbling block to integration. This volume offers insights into these misperceptions and how to bridge the gap. It examines perceptions of the regions' "European perspectives" from the Western Balkan countries, key EU member states, international donors, and the USA.

Format: Hardback
Length: 452 pages
Publication date: 26 July 2023
Publisher: Springer International Publishing AG

The European Union (EU) and the Western Balkans (WB) face significant challenges in their integration process due to differences in perceptions on both sides. The gap between the perspectives of Western Balkan politicians and citizens and those of EU member states is widening, making it crucial to address these misperceptions and find ways to bridge the divide. This volume provides fresh insights into these misperceptions and offers potential solutions. It examines perceptions of the "European perspectives" of the six Western Balkan countries (Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo, Montenegro, North Macedonia, and Serbia) and the key EU member states (Italy, Germany, Croatia), international donors, and the United States. An analysis of diverse views regarding the prospects of EU-WB integration is particularly relevant in the current context of uncertainties surrounding the EU's enlargement policy, particularly after Russia's attack on Ukraine and the granting of candidate status to Ukraine and Moldova.

One of the main challenges in EU-WB integration is the lack of trust and understanding between the two regions. Western Balkan countries have a history of political instability, corruption, and economic underdevelopment, which have contributed to their negative perception in the EU. On the other hand, EU member states have concerns about the potential impact of EU enlargement on their economies, security, and migration policies. These misperceptions can lead to a lack of political will and support for integration efforts, which in turn can hinder progress.

To address these misperceptions, it is important to promote greater dialogue and cooperation between the EU and the WB. This can be achieved through various means, such as regular meetings, joint projects, and exchange programs. The EU can also provide financial and technical assistance to support the development of the WB's infrastructure, education, and healthcare systems.

However, promoting greater dialogue and cooperation is not enough. The EU must also address the underlying causes of these misperceptions. This can be done by implementing reforms that promote good governance, rule of law, and economic development. The EU can also provide support for the WB's efforts to combat corruption and organized crime.

Another challenge in EU-WB integration is the issue of migration. The WB is a source of migration for many EU member states, and the EU's migration policies have been criticized for being ineffective and discriminatory. The EU must work with the WB to develop a comprehensive migration policy that addresses the root causes of migration and provides safe and legal pathways for migrants.

In addition to these challenges, EU-WB integration also presents opportunities. The WB has a young and dynamic population, and its economies are growing rapidly. The EU can benefit from the WB's economic growth by increasing trade and investment. The EU can also provide support for the WB's efforts to develop its infrastructure and improve its competitiveness.

However, EU-WB integration also poses risks. The WB is a region with a history of political instability, and the EU's enlargement policy has been criticized for being too fast and too ambitious. The EU must ensure that the integration process is sustainable and that the benefits of integration are shared equally among all member states.

To address these risks, the EU must take a cautious and gradual approach to integration. The EU must also ensure that the integration process is transparent and inclusive. The EU must also provide support for the WB's efforts to develop its institutions and strengthen its governance.

In conclusion, the differences in perceptions between the EU and the WB are a major stumbling block in their integration process. To address these misperceptions, the EU must promote greater dialogue and cooperation, address the underlying causes of these misperceptions, and take a cautious and gradual approach to integration. By doing so, the EU can benefit from the WB's economic growth and development while also ensuring that the integration process is sustainable and that the benefits of integration are shared equally among all member states.

Dimension: 210 x 148 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783031322044
Edition number: 1st ed. 2023