EU NEW STRATEGIC POLICIES TOWARDS THE WESTERN BALKANS: HOPE FOR THE FUTURE OR ENDLESS POSTPONEMENT

Tilovska-Kechedji, Elena and Kolakovic-Bojovic, Milica and Turanjanin, Veljko (2018) EU NEW STRATEGIC POLICIES TOWARDS THE WESTERN BALKANS: HOPE FOR THE FUTURE OR ENDLESS POSTPONEMENT. Faculty of Law - Kicevo, “St. Kliment Ohridski” University - Bitola Center for Scientific Research at the Faculty of Law - Kicevo, Bitola, Macedonia, pp. 228-238. ISBN 978-608-4670-00-1 608-4670-00-8

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Abstract

In 2014 a new strategy was introduced by the European Union for the Western
Balkans named the Berlin Process. The strategy was introduced after a long set back
of 15 years. The strategy was presented within a timeframe which should be extended
further on. Part of the new strategy consists of cooperation and connectivity,
economic growth, stability and good neighborly relations. Furthermore, in February
this year was presented the Strategy for the Western Balkans which consists of a “six
flagships initiatives” where specific areas are suggested for the region to work on.
They are the initiative to strengthen the rule of law, security, and migration, support
of the socio-economic development, increase transport and energy connectivity,
digitalization, reconciliation and good neighborly relations. The Western Balkan
countries need to complete all the reforms presented in the new strategy but they also
need to implement the Copenhagen criteria and all the benchmarks suggested in each
country report in order to become members of the EU. The joining of the European
Union is not only a process of technicality it is a process of reform in the political and
social surrounding, it is a change in elemental values and beliefs. And despite all of
the efforts, today the EU is still divided over the enlargement process. Some fear
Russian, Chinese and Turkish influence in the area so they encourage Europe to
become a leader and fasten the process of integration of the Western Balkans. Others
fear the unresolved issues between the Balkan countries and believe the region is not
stable and ready. Therefore, the crucial question is: Is this new strategy a realistic
scenario or a pat on the back for another decade?
Keywords: European Union, Western Balkans, new strategic policies, integration

Item Type: Book
Subjects: Scientific Fields (Frascati) > Social Sciences > Other social sciences
Divisions: Faculty of Law
Depositing User: Mr Mladen Kradzoski
Date Deposited: 28 Oct 2018 13:47
Last Modified: 11 Apr 2019 10:54
URI: https://eprints.uklo.edu.mk/id/eprint/1405

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