#BalkansDebrief
#BalkansDebrief is an online interview series presented by the Atlantic Council’s Europe Center and hosted by journalist Ilva Tare. The program offers a fresh look at the Western Balkans and examines the region’s people, culture, challenges, and opportunities. Follow along on Twitter @ACEurope with #BalkansDebrief.
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What are the challenges for Mickoski's North Macedonia? | A Debrief with Malinka Jordanova, Branimir Jovanovic and Lura Pollozhani
08/29/2024
What are the challenges for Mickoski's North Macedonia? | A Debrief with Malinka Jordanova, Branimir Jovanovic and Lura Pollozhani
Following the significant power shift in North Macedonia’s May 8 elections, the VRMO-DPMNE party, led by Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski faces a complex landscape. Six renowned experts have crafted a strategy brief for the Atlantic Council, outlining crucial recommendations for the new government, including democratic reforms, the fight against corruption, economic revitalization, EU integration, and addressing rising ethnic tensions. Resident Senior Fellow Ilva Tare engages in a conversation with three of the policy brief’s authors to discuss the country’s reform agenda. Key questions include: What economic and political implications arise from the loan exceeding half a billion loan from Hungary? What strategies does the government have to address the fiscal deficit? Why is there little optimism for immediate Constitutional changes and how could this impact the center-right government? How will the citizens’ frustration with the stalled EU integration process be addressed to progress with EU accession? What are the potential consequences for the country’s democracy amidst the Ethno-nationalist narrative following recent ethnic tensions?
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Does the new EU-Serbia lithium deal undermine democracy? A Debrief with Ivan Vejvoda
07/30/2024
Does the new EU-Serbia lithium deal undermine democracy? A Debrief with Ivan Vejvoda
The European Union's recent memorandum of understanding with Serbia on raw materials has sparked debate across the Balkans. Signed during German Chancellor Olaf Scholz's visit, the MoU revives a controversial lithium mining project, drawing opposition from many Serbians. In this episode, Nonresident Senior Fellow Ilva Tare is joined by Ivan Vejvoda, Permanent Fellow at the Institute for Human Sciences and Head of Europe’s Futures Project in Vienna, to dissect this complex issue. Does Mr. Vejvoda share the criticism that the EU and Germany are prioritizing lithium access in Serbia over essential democratic principles like environmental protection, rule of law, and independent media? With concerns about weak independent institutions and a critical public sphere in Serbia, can the country uphold high environmental and social standards? How can the EU ensure that such agreements maintain rigorous environmental and social principles? Could this agreement reduce Serbia’s reliance on China, and what might be the broader geopolitical implications? Join #BalkansDebrief for an in-depth discussion on the potential impacts of this deal and the geoeconomic and geopolitical interests of the EU in the Western Balkans.
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What EU reforms will make enlargement successful? A Debrief with Enrico Letta
07/24/2024
What EU reforms will make enlargement successful? A Debrief with Enrico Letta
Why should Europe focus on the Balkans? What are the potential opportunities and challenges for EU enlargement and the Growth Plan for this region? Join Nonresident Senior Fellow Ilva Tare in this episode of #BalkansDebrief as she interviews Enrico Letta, former Prime Minister of Italy and current President of the Institut Jacques Delors. With his extensive experience in European Union affairs and his recent influential report on the future of the Single Market, Mr. Letta provides deep insights into the necessary reforms for successful EU enlargement. In this episode, Mr. Letta discusses his advocacy for the "Regatta Method" over the "Big Bang" approach for EU enlargement, emphasizing the importance of allowing each country to join when ready rather than waiting for the slowest in the region. He also elaborates on his proposed blueprint for EU enlargement success, which includes critical reforms such as on veto rules and the creation of a “solidarity enlargement facility.” Discover the future of the EU and the vital steps needed to integrate the six Western Balkan countries into the new Single Market, as envisioned by Enrico Letta, a staunch advocate of enlargement in the Western Balkans.
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Where next for Serbian foreign policy? | A Debrief with Igor Bandovic and Nikola Burazer
07/03/2024
Where next for Serbian foreign policy? | A Debrief with Igor Bandovic and Nikola Burazer
For decades, the United States and Serbia have engaged in a delicate diplomatic dance. Recently, Serbian think tank representatives visited Washington, DC, for critical talks with US policymakers. Their agenda? Navigating the complexities of Serbia's democratic health and evolving foreign policy, including unpacking its shifting alliances with Russia and China, and how these relationships impact Serbia's aspirations for membership in the European Union (EU). Ilva Tare is joined in this episode of #BalkansDebrief by Igor Bandovic, Director of the Belgrade Center for Security Policy, and Nikola Burazer, Program Director at the Center for Contemporary Politics, to discuss their main concerns regarding Serbia’s state of democracy, nationalistic rhetoric, and dialogue between Belgrade and Pristina. What are the top foreign policy and security challenges facing Serbia currently? The All-Serb Assembly reignited nationalist sentiment across the region. How significant is this, and what potential consequences could it have for Serbia and regional stability?
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Do Balkan nationalist chants at EURO 2024 fuel ethnic tensions? | A Debrief with Florian Bieber
06/26/2024
Do Balkan nationalist chants at EURO 2024 fuel ethnic tensions? | A Debrief with Florian Bieber
Football and politics are deeply intertwined, especially in the Balkans, where the mix can be volatile. At the UEFA Euro Cup in Germany this year, nationalistic chants and provocative acts highlighted the ongoing tensions among Balkan nations. Serbia, Albania, and Croatia clashed not only in the stadiums but also in a display of ethnic rivalries. In this episode Ilva Tare is joined by Florian Bieber, a renowned historian and professor at the University of Graz, specializing in inter-ethnic relations and nationalism in the Balkans. They discuss the complex role of football as both a catalyst for rivalry and a potential bridge for unity in the region. How does football act as a double-edged sword, fueling both rivalry and potentially fostering unity in the Balkans? How do nationalistic rhetoric and historical narratives shape the current tensions? Can the younger generations break the cycle of resentment, or are they destined to inherit past grievances? What role can they play in reconciliation? Given the political landscape, is peace in the Balkans a realistic goal? What concrete steps can governments and the international community take to foster stability? Join #BalkansDebrief for a thought-provoking discussion on the dynamics of football, nationalism, and the quest for peace and reconciliation in the Balkans.
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Why is distrust in institutions alarming for the Balkans? | A debrief with Amila Karačić
05/28/2024
Why is distrust in institutions alarming for the Balkans? | A debrief with Amila Karačić
The recent International Republican Institute (IRI) poll on the Western Balkans has revealed some concerning trends for the region's aspirations of joining the European Union. While the war in Ukraine presented a potential opening, the path to membership appears to be facing significant challenges. Nonresident Senior Fellow Ilva Tare is joined by Amila Karačić, Director of Programs of IRI in Bosnia and Herzegovina, who also oversees the Western Balkans regional programs, to discuss the main takeaways of the poll conducted in the six countries. Is there evidence that pro-Russian narratives are gaining traction outside of Serbia? Why are citizens in the Western Balkans less likely to push for political change, despite wanting EU integration? How deep is their distrust in politicians and institutions? Why does it seem that citizens prefer strongman leaders despite their potential to undermine the path towards the EU? Is nationalism a concern in the region? In which country is it most pronounced?
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What is the US role amidst fragility in the Western Balkans? | A debrief with Gabriel Escobar
05/20/2024
What is the US role amidst fragility in the Western Balkans? | A debrief with Gabriel Escobar
The Western Balkans stand at a pivotal moment. Regional stability, security, and prosperity require a more robust US engagement. EU accession remains the goal but simmering ethnic tensions and resurgent nationalism demand a comprehensive US strategy that includes specific and actionable commitments. In the light of Russia’s brutal invasion of Ukraine that has shaken European security foundations, how can the US enhance its collaboration with the EU to develop a unified approach regarding the future of the Western Balkans? Ilva Tare, Nonresident Senior Fellow at the Atlantic Council’s Europe Center, discusses with outgoing US Deputy Assistant Secretary and Special Representative for the Western Balkans Gabriel Escobar, at the end of his term, the most pressing issues for the region’s EU prospects, the challenges with corruption and economic growth, and the main concerns for increased tension and risks for stability. Tare asks DAS Escobar if prioritizing the Association of Serb-Majority Municipalities on the normalization dialogue between Kosovo and Serbia was the most effective strategy, and what is the path forward on this issue? Is the US considering alternative approaches towards Serbia to achieve progress on EU alignment, especially after the composition of the new government? Can the US prevent a fracturing of the fragile peace in Bosnia and Herzegovina? How concerning is Russian influence in the Western Balkans? Specific questions on Montenegro, North Macedonia and Albania will also be covered in this #BalkansDebrief episode.
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Why do North Macedonia’s elections matter for its EU future? | A debrief with Aleksej Demjanski
05/01/2024
Why do North Macedonia’s elections matter for its EU future? | A debrief with Aleksej Demjanski
As the May 8th runoff looms, the people of North Macedonia are gearing up for a pivotal parliamentary election that will chart the nation’s course towards European Union integration, alongside the decisive second round of the presidential election. The outcomes are anticipated to signal a shift in the electorate’s mood, reflecting their discontent with the stalled EU accession progress since the 2019 name change and the tensions with Bulgaria over demanded constitutional amendments. Nonresident Senior Fellow Ilva Tare and political analyst Aleksej Demjanski, editor of the MacedonianMatters newsletter, discuss in this episode of #BalkanasDebrief the significance of these elections for North Macedonia’s European aspirations. They will explore what Gordana Siljanovska-Davkova’s lead in the presidential election’s first round, securing 40.1% of the votes, reveals about the public’s appetite for change. The conversation will also cover the core messages and strategies of the incumbent SDSM party’s campaign, as well as the resonating themes of the opposition VMRO-DPMNE’s efforts, and how they align with the citizen’s concerns. Furthermore, the conversation will cover the potential post-election alliances. Could we witness a coalition between VMRO-DPMNE, ZNAM, and VLEN, or will the SDSM and DUI maintain their coalition? How will the political landscape and impact North Macedonia’s EU path?
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Why is France refocused on security in the Balkans? | A debrief with Alexandre Vulic
04/15/2024
Why is France refocused on security in the Balkans? | A debrief with Alexandre Vulic
The Western Balkans remain a security concern, particularly Bosnia and Herzegovina. Recently, France has deployed a battalion as part of the Strategic Reserve Force to assist the EUFOR mission and exercise a level of deterrence in Bosnia and Kosovo, two countries with security issues, where France wants to see progress. Ilva Tare, a Nonresident Senior Fellow at the Europe Center, discusses regional security issues with Alexandre Vulic, Deputy Director General for Strategic Affairs, International Security, and Arms Control at the French Ministry of Europe and Foreign Affairs. Why does France consider the situation in Bosnia as stable yet fragile? What are the main concerns that threaten security in the region? How do cybersecurity, disinformation, and false narratives affect the Western Balkans? And how can France counter Russia’s influence, which is exercised via proxies and nationalist forces?
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Why is the UK focused on reconciliation in the Balkans? | A debrief with Lord Stuart Peach
03/29/2024
Why is the UK focused on reconciliation in the Balkans? | A debrief with Lord Stuart Peach
With the Ukraine war underscoring security risks in the Western Balkans, the United Kingdom has doubled down on its commitment to the region's stability. In this episode of #BalkansDebrief, Nonresident Senior Fellow Ilva Tare speaks with Lord Stuart Peach, the UK’s Special Envoy for the region. Tare asks Lord Peach about the reasons for optimism and pessimism in the region. How do the old issues such as nationalism, Russian influence, and a media landscape rife with misinformation impact the lives of citizens, particularly the younger generation? Why is the UK prioritizing reconciliation efforts in the Balkans? What are the UK's expectations for the ongoing dialogue between Kosovo and Serbia? What concrete steps should the President of Serbia Aleksandar Vučić and Prime Minister of Kosovo Albin Kurti take to achieve progress? How concerned is the UK about calls for secession of the Republika Srpska by Milorad Dodik? Why are free and fair elections crucial for the EU aspirations of the Western Balkan countries?
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Why are elections in North Macedonia critical for its EU path? | A debrief with Marko Troshanovski
03/19/2024
Why are elections in North Macedonia critical for its EU path? | A debrief with Marko Troshanovski
North Macedonia, a small nation of 2 million, in the Western Balkans, gained international attention in 2019, when it agreed to the seemingly impossible: changing its name in exchange for EU negotiations and NATO membership. While NATO membership was secured, EU accession talks have stalled for years. This is largely due to Bulgaria’s demand for Constitutional changes recognizing a Bulgarian minority. For North Macedonians, Sofia’s veto was a bitter pill to swallow resulting in public support for the EU dropping sharply, according to surveys. On May 8, the country faces critical elections that will decide its future in relation to the EU. Nonresident Senior Fellow Ilva Tare sits down will Marko Troshanovski, President of the Institute for Democracy, to discuss the importance of the elections and the key issues debated by the main two opposing political camps. Can the North Macedonian public regain trust in the EU accession process? What do the surveys suggest about the winner of the political elections? How will a potential victory by the center-right VRMNO-DPMNE opposition affect the country’s foreign policy and its EU path? What role will Albanian parties play in the winning coalition? How should the new government address the problem of corruption?
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Why did the dinar ban spark Kosovo-US tension? | A debrief with Arian Zeka and Dragisa Mijacic
02/27/2024
Why did the dinar ban spark Kosovo-US tension? | A debrief with Arian Zeka and Dragisa Mijacic
Kosovo’s recent ban on the dinar, aimed by the Kurti government at curbing illegal cash flow, has sparked tensions with US and the European partners and raised concerns about its impact on the Kosovo Serb community, on the normalization dialogue with Serbia, and Kosovo’s wider relationship with its Western allies. Nonresident Senior Fellow Ilva Tare discusses the reasons behind this controversial move with two esteemed guests; Arian Zeka, Executive Director of the American Chamber of Commerce in Kosovo and Dragisa Mijacic Executive Director of InTER Institute for Territorial Economic Development. Key questions: Why did the Central Bank of Kosovo announce the euro-only policy on February 1st? How does this decision impact the daily lives of Kosovo’s Serb community considering pensions and welfare concerns raised by the local NGO’s? Should Westerns partners have been consulted by the Kosovo government before the ban? What are the potential implications for US-Kosovo relations after the call to reverse the ban? Can the Association of the Serb Majority Municipalities address the issue of financing and dinar use, as some suggest?
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What awaits the Balkans in 2024? | A debrief with Damir Kapidzic
01/17/2024
What awaits the Balkans in 2024? | A debrief with Damir Kapidzic
2024 has already plunged the Western Balkans into a maelstrom of complex developments. Serbia's post-election protests, the precarious Kosovo-Serbia dialogue, and the Kremlin-aligned Dodik's paramilitary parade all raise critical questions about the region's stability. In this episode of #BalkansDebrief, Ilva Tare, Europe Center's Nonresident Senior Fellow, welcomes Damir Kapidžić, Political Scientist and Associate Professor at the University of Sarajevo, and a Weatherhead Visiting Scholar at Harvard. Together, they dissect the critical crossroads facing the region as U.S. and EU elections loom on the horizon. Key questions: How will the new U.S. and EU administrations engage with the Balkans? Can the region still harbor hopes for progress towards EU membership? And how can the newly proposed EU Growth Plan translate from promises into tangible advancements, paving the way towards economic integration?
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How will the US&EU elections reshape the Western Balkans? | A debrief with Ivan Krastev
01/08/2024
How will the US&EU elections reshape the Western Balkans? | A debrief with Ivan Krastev
As 2024 dawns, the Balkans cling to a fragile dream: EU membership. But the region and the Union itself are beset by internal tremors. From simmering protests in Serbia to looming threats and economic storms, the region braces for a year of turbulence. Can they emerge resilient from this crucible? Ilva Tare, Nonresident Senior Fellow, delves into these questions and more with Ivan Krastev, chair of the Center for Liberal Strategies and Permanent Fellow at the Institute for Human Sciences in Vienna. Krastev casts a cautious eye on EU reform prospects, outlining potential timelines and highlighting the factors that could determine success or failure. He also analyzes how the November US elections might reshape Washington's engagement with the Balkans, with implications for the region as a whole and, in particular, the fragile Kosovo-Serbia dialogue. From unexpected twists in the electoral landscape to the ever-shifting sands of regional politics, this year promises to be a rollercoaster. Tune in to hear Krastev’s insights into the key forces at play and why the Balkans and not only, are poised for a turbulent year.
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Unrest in Serbia after elections: is democracy at risk? | A debrief with Rasa Nedeljkov
01/04/2024
Unrest in Serbia after elections: is democracy at risk? | A debrief with Rasa Nedeljkov
Serbia witnessed a tumultuous end to 2023, with protests erupting in Belgrade following the December 17th elections. Thousands demand the annulment, alleging President Vučić's Progressive Party fabricated results through cross-border voting. Despite claiming a "cleanest and most honest" victory, international observers have condemned widespread fraud and manipulation. The West, has been criticized for turning a blind eye to Vučić's actions. But with renewed protests and whispers of regional conflict, will the honeymoon end? Nonresident Senior Fellow Ilva Tare speaks to Rasa Nedeljkov, Program Director of the Center for Research, Transparency and Accountability which has monitored closely the election with particular focus on the capital, Belgrade. International observers have condemned the irregularities, while Brussels and Washington demand a response from the government. What role can the international community play in mitigating these tensions? How should the West engage moving forward? Were the alleged manipulations significant enough to alter the outcome? If a rerun were to occur, particularly in Belgrade, could a different outcome be anticipated?
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What’s next for the Balkans after EU enlargement decision? | A debrief with #BalkansForward team
12/19/2023
What’s next for the Balkans after EU enlargement decision? | A debrief with #BalkansForward team
A sigh of relief, perhaps even cautious optimism, has swept across the Western Balkans. The EU Council's decision to open accession talks with Ukraine and Moldova, alongside a conditional green light for Bosnia and Herzegovina, signals renewed engagement with the region. But is this truly a new dawn, or just a flicker of light in persistent uncertainty? The stakes are high, with implications for political stability, economic growth, and ultimately, the future of the Western Balkan six countries. Nonresident Senior Fellow Ilva Tare speaks to Atlantic Council Europe Center's Balkans Forward team: Maja Piscevic, Amb. Cameron Munter, and Valbona Zeneli. Will the renewed EU enlargement commitment mark the long-awaited entry point for the Balkans onto the European stage? While the Council's decision marks a step forward, is it enough to sustain the momentum for Western Balkan accession, or are there still significant hurdles to overcome before reaching the European stage? Will the EU reform the enlargement process, and how possible is it to achieve the ambitious goal of doubling the region’s economic growth in a decade?
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What's behind Italy-Albania immigration deal? | A debrief with Natalie Tocci
11/29/2023
What's behind Italy-Albania immigration deal? | A debrief with Natalie Tocci
In a groundbreaking agreement, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and her Albanian counterpart Edi Rama have agreed to establish a migrant processing center in Albania. The center will be funded by Italy and operate under Italian jurisdiction. This unprecedented move, with funding from Italy and operation under Italian jurisdiction, has sparked a heated debate, raising concerns about its adherence to international and European legal frameworks governing asylum rights. While the European Commission has maintained that the deal does not contravene EU asylum law, human rights groups remain wary of its potential impact on the rights of migrants. Nonresident Senior Fellow Ilva Tare speaks to Nathalie Tocci, Director of the Instituto Affari Internazionali in Italy, about the political and social implications of this agreement. Will this deal set a precedent for other EU member states to outsource their asylum processing to non-EU countries or aspiring EU candidates? What are the primary concerns surrounding the effective implementation of the agreement? And could this approach serve as a potential solution to the escalating migration flows reaching EU shores?
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Why does the US want Kosovo to urgently implement the ASM? A debrief with Jeffrey Hovenier
11/10/2023
Why does the US want Kosovo to urgently implement the ASM? A debrief with Jeffrey Hovenier
Kosovo’s government’s accepted the US-backed EU draft for the Association of Serbian Municipalities (ASM), a positive move towards normalizing Serbia-Kosovo relations. However, the questions remain on how to ensure the ASM’s implementation. Ambassador of the United States to the Republic of Kosovo, Jeffrey M. Hovenier says it is crucial to move forward with the ASM and to not get caught up in formalities. This stance was echoed by Prime Minister Albin Kurti regarding Serbia’s refusal to sign the EU’s draft agreement. What institutions will be created as part of the ASM? What are the possible consequences for Kosovo and Serbia if there is a further delay in the ASM’s implementation? How will US-Kosovo relationship look in the case of a successful normalization dialogue?
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What challenges face new Montenegro government? | A Debrief with Ana Nenezic
11/01/2023
What challenges face new Montenegro government? | A Debrief with Ana Nenezic
After four and a half months of negotiations, a new pro-EU government led by the "Europe Now" leader, Milojko Spajic, was voted in by Parliament. The government includes a coalition of pro-European and pro-Serbian parties. In reaction to the appointment of Andrija Mandic, head of a pro-Serb and pro-Russia alliance called "For a Better Montenegro," protests emerged in Podgorica. In this episode of #BalkansDebrief, Ilva Tare, a nonresident senior fellow at the Atlantic Council's Europe Center, speaks to political analyst and the director of the Institute for SocioPolitical Research - Analitico, Ana Nenezic. How will the new government be able to reconcile the presence of pro-Russian figures in the government with their pro-EU goals? Will this be a stable government? What does the new government composition mean for Russia and Serbia in the NATO member country?
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A view from the European Parliament on Kosovo-Serbia crisis | A Debrief with Viola von Cramon
10/23/2023
A view from the European Parliament on Kosovo-Serbia crisis | A Debrief with Viola von Cramon
The European Parliament's (EP) resolution condemning Serbia's actions in northern Kosovo marks a significant development in the ongoing crisis between the two countries. The resolution calls for a freeze on funding for the Serbian government if it is found to have been directly involved in the recent attack in Banjska. In a debrief with Nonresident Senior Fellow Ilva Tare, Viola von Cramon, a member of the EP Foreign Affairs Committee and the Rapporteur on Kosovo, discusses the implications of the resolution and the EU's role in ensuring that Serbia cooperates fully with the investigation into the Banjska attack. What measures can the EU implement to guarantee Serbia's unconditional cooperation in the investigation of the Banjska attack? Why is time of the essence to swiftly resume the EU-led dialogue and achieve normalization between Kosovo and Serbia?
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What is the future of normalization process between Kosovo and Serbia? A Debrief with Alicia Kearns
10/13/2023
What is the future of normalization process between Kosovo and Serbia? A Debrief with Alicia Kearns
The recent murder of a Kosovar Albanian police officer by dozens of Serbian gunmen in the north of Kosovo is a reminder of the increasing security concerns between the two nations and the region at large. Given that the EU-led Belgrade-Pristina Dialogue for comprehensive normalization has reached a dead end, how should the international community respond to the violence and reconvene a dialogue? Nonresident Senior Fellow Ilva Tare discusses the course of action for international engagement in the region with British MP Alicia Kearns, Chair of the Foreign Affairs Select Committee, UK House of Commons. Kearns has been pushing for a more robust international response to prevent further escalation with improved deterrence measures. What is the future of the normalization dialogue between Serbia and Kosovo? How will the EU respond to Serbia’s role in the attack in northern Kosovo led by Kosovo Serb Milan Radoicic? What actions can the UK and the international community at large take to promote inter-ethnic understanding in Kosovo? Should Kosovo uphold its commitment to implement the Association of Serbian Municipalities (ASM)?
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Civil society's role in Western Balkans EU accession | A Debrief with Andi Dobrushi
10/11/2023
Civil society's role in Western Balkans EU accession | A Debrief with Andi Dobrushi
The war in Ukraine has renewed interest in EU enlargement in Eastern Europe and the Western Balkans. The Berlin Process, which has been working to revitalize ties between Western Balkan candidate countries and the EU for the last 10 years, is now seeing its efforts pay off. The 2023 Tirana Civil Society and Think Tank Forum is playing a key role in the conversation on EU Enlargement into the Balkans. The forum, organized by the Open Society Foundation Western Balkans (OSF-WB), the Hellenic Foundation for European & Foreign Policy (ELIAMEP), and the Cooperation & Development Institute (CDI) as part of the Berlin Summit, will be held in Albania on October 14th–15th. Regional experts will gather to develop strategies for cooperation, accelerated EU reforms, and accession processes. In this episode of BalkansDebrief, Nonresident Senior Fellow Ilva Tare and Western Balkans Executive Director of the Open Society Foundation Andi Dobrushi discuss the importance of holding Western Balkan governments and EU member states accountable for their commitments to candidate countries’ EU reforms as well as the role of civil society in the Western Balkans enlargement process. What role can civil society organizations play in promoting democracy, human rights, and the rule of law in the region? How can civil society and think tank experts hold decision-makers accountable and influence the direction of Western Balkans accession processes?
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How to integrate Serbs in Northern Kosovo? | A debrief with Shpetim Gashi and Milica Andric Rakic
09/18/2023
How to integrate Serbs in Northern Kosovo? | A debrief with Shpetim Gashi and Milica Andric Rakic
As the EU-facilitated dialogue between Belgrade and Pristina in Brussels faces a critical juncture, the pressing question arises: How do we navigate this impasse? In this episode of #BalkansDebrief, Nonresident Senior Fellow Ilva Tare talks to two civil society leaders, Milica Andric Rakic, program manager at the New Social Initiative, and Shpetim Gashi, Vice President of the Council for Inclusive Governance, to discuss steps needed for integrating the Serb community in the north of Kosovo. In their for the New Atlanticist, Gashi and Andric Rakic proposed delinking the issue of integration from the broader status dispute between Kosovo and Serbia. How feasible is this approach? What role can the international community play in facilitating a resolution to the crisis in Kosovo?
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Will North Macedonia change its constitution? | A debrief with H.E. Bojan Maricikj
09/07/2023
Will North Macedonia change its constitution? | A debrief with H.E. Bojan Maricikj
Ahead of a crucial vote to amend its constitution, Skopje’s political landscape remains sharply divided. The current government strongly supports the changes, which will add language in recognition of the country's Bulgarian minority, while the opposition remains vehemently opposed. Even a pro-amendment campaign by EU and US diplomats has yet to tip the scales in favor of the amendment's adoption. Just as the country voted to change its name before becoming a NATO member, adopting this constitutional amendment is considered to be North Macedonia’s exclusive path to EU membership. The government is therefore engaging in an open dialogue with opposition members in the hopes that a difficult compromise can be reached for the sake of progress. Nonresident Senior Fellow Ilva Tare speaks to the Deputy Prime Minister for European Affairs Bojan Maricikj on the pressing questions surrounding North Macedonia’s accession to the EU. What is the public's sentiment regarding the constitutional changes, and are North Macedonian politicians prepared to make tough choices to further EU integration? Does Skopje’s government have any contingency plans in case the amendment is defeated by the Parliament? How credible is the indicative date of 2030 as the deadline for accession of the Western Balkan countries?
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What to expect from the October Berlin Process Summit? | A debrief with Odeta Barbullushi
07/26/2023
What to expect from the October Berlin Process Summit? | A debrief with Odeta Barbullushi
The Berlin Process, led by EU member states under German leadership, was revitalized last year to promote economic regional cooperation among the Western Balkans' six countries. Albania currently holds the chairmanship of the Berlin Summit, which is scheduled for October 16 in Tirana, with the participation of EU leaders. Ahead of the summit, Nonresident Senior Fellow Ilva Tare interviews Dr. Odeta Barbullushi, advisor to Albania's Prime Minister on European issues and regional cooperation. Central to the Berlin Process is the ambitious "Common Regional Market," which aims to enhance economic convergence and potentially achieve a growth rate of 6-7% of the region's GDP. While the EU remains the primary trading partner for the Western Balkans countries, the region's economic potential remains untapped. The expectations of the Western Balkans countries for the Berlin Summit are high. Will the Western Balkan countries receive substantial EU funding to support regional connectivity in key sectors such as infrastructure, energy, digital, and cyber security? What is the US stance in supporting and promoting security and economic cooperation in the region?
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Benefits of regional economic integration? A debrief with Stefan Lazarevic and Enio Jaco
07/19/2023
Benefits of regional economic integration? A debrief with Stefan Lazarevic and Enio Jaco
Benefits of regional economic integration| A debrief with Stefan Lazarevic and Enio Jaco Home to 18 million people in the heart of Europe, the Western Balkans have enormous potential to catalyze economic growth through greater market openness. Ongoing regional cooperation efforts aim to address economic challenges such as high rates of unemployment and poverty, issues regarding corruption and upholding the rule of law, and stemming the region’s “brain drain” and resulting labor shortages. Recent events are also pushing EU leaders to recognize the importance of the Western Balkans to EU security. As a result, there has been a shift towards expediting the enlargement process, including early access to the EU single market and pre-accession funds to support economic reforms and transformative projects. In this episode, Nonresident Senior Fellow Ilva Tare speaks to the President of American Chamber of Commerce of Serbia Stefan Lazarevic and President of American Chamber of Commerce of Albania Enio Jaco on the region’s business climate. Are international investors attracted by the potential that the region holds as a common market? What are their main challenges, and why call for more cooperation to remove barriers and decrease political polarization?
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Will Montenegro form a new government? | A debrief with Petar Popovic
06/22/2023
Will Montenegro form a new government? | A debrief with Petar Popovic
Following snap parliamentary elections on June 11th, Montenegro finds itself in a new phase of political uncertainty. The Europe Now Movement (PES) won a plurality of the vote but failed to secure enough seats to form a government. More alarmingly, voter turnout hit a historic low of 56.4 percent due in part to election fatigue and a lack of political change. Now more than ever, the country needs consensus if it is to continue necessary reforms on its path to EU membership. Nonresident Senior Fellow Ilva Tare discusses the post-election political landscape in Montenegro with Petar Popovic, associate professor at the Faculty of Political Science, University of Zagreb. Will these elections bring the political stability Montenegro requires? Who are potential allies for leading contender PES to form a governing coalition? What factors depressed voter turnout? Finally, what lies in store for former President Djukanovic after dominating Montenegrin political life for over three decades?
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Will Kosovo and Serbia make the needed concessions towards normalization? A debrief with Sen. Chris Murphy
06/13/2023
Will Kosovo and Serbia make the needed concessions towards normalization? A debrief with Sen. Chris Murphy
Will Kosovo and Serbia make concessions towards normalization? A debrief with Sen. Chris Murphy After the recent escalation of tensions in northern Kosovo, Senator Murphy played a crucial role in urging for de-escalation between Kosovo and Serbia. Thanks to broad bipartisan support in the US Senate, both Serbia and Kosovo were called upon to address the fragile security situation in the north and resume the normalization dialogue facilitated by the EU and supported by the United States. Nonresident Senior Fellow Ilva Tare speaks to Hon. Chris Murphy, United States Senator (D-CT), to discuss his recent trip to the region, the messages he delivered to the leaders in Pristina and Belgrade, and the concessions that Kosovo and Serbia should make in order to progress on their respective paths. How does he view Kosovo's concerns about an unbalanced response by the US and the EU, placing the main responsibility on Kosovo for the crisis in the north? What role could the Association of the Serb Majority Municipalities play in achieving a meaningful resolution? How do the protests in Belgrade and the recent reports on his connections with organized hooligans affect the credibility of Serbia's President Vučić?
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What’s behind the escalation in Kosovo? | A debrief with Jovana Radosavljevic and Agon Maliqi
06/01/2023
What’s behind the escalation in Kosovo? | A debrief with Jovana Radosavljevic and Agon Maliqi
What’s behind the escalation in Kosovo? A debrief with Jovana Radosavljevic and Agon Maliqi Violent protests in the north of Kosovo have escalated the situation, leaving 50 KFOR troops wounded when newly elected Albanian mayors entered the municipality buildings in areas with a Serbian majority, protected by an increased presence of Kosovo police. NATO has deployed 700 additional troops to ensure territorial security. The decision of Kosovo's Prime Minister to deploy the new mayors in the municipality buildings in the north has led to growing international frustration, causing the Pristina government to alienate strategic allies, including the United States and key members of the European Union. The United States has urged Kosovo's PM to de-escalate the situation by withdrawing the police and relocating the mayors to alternative buildings. Nonresident Senior Fellow Ilva Tare speaks to Jovana Radosavljevic, a Kosovo Serb who resides in the north of Kosovo and the Executive Director of the New Social Initiative, and to Agon Maliqi, an analyst from Kosovo. What steps should be taken to calm the situation and restore the dialogue between Kosovo and Serbia? Why are the Kosovo Serbs protesting, and will the establishment of the Association of the Serbs Majority or new elections offer a possible compromise? What potential implications for Kosovo government and its Euro-Atlantic aspiration after the latest stances from the strategic allies?
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Why the European future of the Balkans depends on Serbia? | A Debrief with Borut Pahor
05/22/2023
Why the European future of the Balkans depends on Serbia? | A Debrief with Borut Pahor
Why the European future of the Balkans depends on Serbia? | A Debrief with Borut Pahor In the wake of the Russian invasion of Ukraine, a new European security order is being designed. After years of enlargement impasse, Brussels has recognized the pivotal role of the EU membership of the six Western Balkan countries. What future will the region have, and how can the influence of Russia be challenged in the Western Balkans? In this episode of #BalkansDebrief, Nonresident Senior Fellow Ilva Tare talks to former Prime Minister and former President of Slovenia Borut Pahor, a friend and unrivaled connoisseur of the region about region's main challenges. What place will the six Western Balkan countries have in the new European security order? Why is the EU enlargement process vital for the region, and what can be done to boost the confidence of the aspiring countries into the EU membership? Why is Serbia's decision to remain with the West rather than join Russia crucial for the region? Why is the implementation of the agreement to establish an Association of Serbs Municipalities important, and what impact will this agreement have on the relations between Serbia and Kosovo?
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