Towards Economic Inclusion in the Western Balkans

The countries in the Western Balkans have faced significant challenges due to the wars and conflicts that led to the breakup of former Yugoslavia, including political instability, weak economies, high levels of unemployment, poverty, social exclusion, and inequality. Despite recent economic growth, the COVID-19 pandemic has reversed these trends and worsened social hardships. This book identifies key challenges in economic inclusion and proposes solutions for a more acceptable, equitable, and effective economic inclusion policy.

Format: Hardback
Length: 375 pages
Publication date: 11 October 2022
Publisher: Springer International Publishing AG

The countries in the Western Balkans have faced significant challenges as a result of the wars and conflicts that led to the breakup of former Yugoslavia. These challenges include political instability, the establishment of new states, weak economies, high levels of unemployment, poverty, social exclusion, and inequality. Recent surveys, such as the EBRD's Life in Transition Survey and Eurofound's European Quality of Life Survey, have highlighted the region's low life satisfaction compared to other parts of Europe.

Despite previous efforts to promote economic growth, the COVID-19 pandemic of 2020 has reversed these trends and exacerbated social hardships. The pandemic has led to a sudden decline in economic activity, rising unemployment rates, and increased pessimism about the future. This situation poses a significant risk of repeating past failures in economic inclusion policies.

This book aims to address the key challenges in the areas of economic inclusion, focusing on labor markets, vocational education and skills, female entrepreneurship, and the integration of migrants. It examines the opportunities for building back better once the recovery from the COVID-19 crisis begins, and proposes more acceptable, equitable, and effective economic inclusion policies.

The Western Balkans region has a rich history and diverse cultural heritage, but it has also faced numerous challenges. The wars and conflicts of the 1990s led to the breakup of Yugoslavia, resulting in the creation of several new states. This process was marked by political instability, economic decline, and social unrest.

The countries in the region have struggled to establish stable governments, develop effective economic policies, and address social issues such as poverty, unemployment, and inequality. The COVID-19 pandemic has further exacerbated these challenges, highlighting the need for urgent action to address the region's economic and social needs.

One of the key challenges facing the Western Balkans is the need to promote economic growth and create job opportunities. The region has a young and educated workforce, but many people are unemployed or underemployed. The lack of investment in infrastructure, technology, and industry has hindered the region's ability to attract foreign direct investment and promote economic development.

To address this challenge, the region needs to prioritize investment in infrastructure, education, and industry. This can include initiatives to improve access to electricity, transportation, and internet services, as well as investments in research and development, innovation, and entrepreneurship.

Vocational education and skills development are also critical to promoting economic growth and reducing unemployment. The region needs to invest in training programs that align with the needs of the labor market and provide workers with the skills they need to succeed in the job market. This can include programs that focus on technical skills, entrepreneurship, and language learning.

Female entrepreneurship is another area that can contribute to economic growth and social inclusion. Women in the Western Balkans have historically faced barriers to entrepreneurship, including limited access to finance, education, and networking opportunities. However, there is growing evidence that female entrepreneurship can be a powerful driver of economic development and social change.

To promote female entrepreneurship, the region needs to invest in programs that support women's entrepreneurship, such as grants, loans, and mentorship programs. It can also create policies that promote gender equality and support women's economic empowerment.

The integration of migrants is another critical area of economic inclusion in the Western Balkans. The region has a large immigrant population, primarily from Syria, Afghanistan, and other conflict-ridden regions. Many migrants face challenges in finding employment, accessing healthcare, and integrating into local communities.

To address this challenge, the region needs to invest in policies that promote the integration of migrants, such as language learning programs, employment training programs, and social services. It can also work to create a more welcoming and inclusive environment for migrants by promoting cultural exchange and understanding.

In addition to these challenges, the Western Balkans region faces several other issues that require attention. These include corruption, political instability, and environmental degradation. Addressing these issues will require a comprehensive and sustained effort from the governments, international organizations, and the private sector.

In conclusion, the countries in the Western Balkans have faced significant challenges as a result of the wars and conflicts that led to the breakup of former Yugoslavia. These challenges include political instability, weak economies, high levels of unemployment, poverty, social exclusion, and inequality. The COVID-19 pandemic has further exacerbated these challenges, highlighting the need for urgent action to address the region's economic and social needs.

To promote economic growth and create job opportunities, the region needs to prioritize investment in infrastructure, education, and industry. Vocational education and skills development are critical to reducing unemployment and promoting economic growth. Female entrepreneurship can contribute to economic development and social inclusion, and the integration of migrants is essential to promoting social cohesion and reducing social exclusion.

In addition to these challenges, the region faces several other issues that require attention, such as corruption, political instability, and environmental degradation. Addressing these issues will require a comprehensive and sustained effort from the governments, international organizations, and the private sector. By working together, the Western Balkans region can build a more prosperous and inclusive future for its citizens.

Weight: 657g
Dimension: 210 x 148 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783031061110
Edition number: 1st ed. 2022