The Western Balkans-EU summit in December 2023 has shown the crucial importance of the need of integrating the Western Balkans in the European Union – not only for economic reasons but also to prevent other geopolitical players from gaining further ground in Europe. Over the last years external powers have been undertaking repeated measures to gain access and influence in the Western Balkans using economic, diplomatic, and hybrid tools. Disinformation campaigns are aimed at increasing skepticism and opposition against the European Union and NATO.

In this panel discussion, the focus will be on discussing current challenges created by malign external players in the Western Balkans and strategies to counter efforts to create fissures in the EU integration process of the region. We further want to scrutinize the importance of a strong and united EU and NATO, and transatlantic alliance as the biggest promise for European security and prosperity. We will also discuss the tightrope ride between quick integration and making sure that prospective member countries fulfill the conditions for full EU membership, in terms of rule of law and economic stability.

Panelists:
Eric Beißwenger, European and International Affairs Minister
Miroslav Lajcak, EU Special Representative for the Belgrade-Pristina Dialogue
Christian Schmidt, High Representative in Bosnia and Herzegovina
Gordan Grlić Radman, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Croatia
Bujar Osmani, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic North Macedonia
Filip Ivanović, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Montenegro
Elmedin Konaković, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Bosnia-Herzegovina
Luminita Odobescu, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Romania

Moderator:
Dr. Valbona Zeneli, George C. Marshall European Center For Security Studies

Photo: © NASA / unsplash.com