Our next video features Nikolaos Tzifakis, Jean Monnet Chair in EU Foreign Policy and the Western Balkans and Professor of International Relations in the Department of Political Science and International Relations of the University of Peloponnese.
He answers the key question: How is the EU contributing to the resilience of the candidate countries of the Western Balkans?
The EU continues to provide significant financial support to the Western Balkans in areas like connectivity, digital skills, and the green energy transition. However, these efforts alone are not sufficient. Many regions are still falling behind, highlighting the need for increased investment, better coordination, and the sharing of best practices through EU cohesion policy.
Beyond funding, the transfer of knowledge, legislative alignment, and institutional strengthening are vital for lasting impact. The EU must also focus more on ensuring substantial compliance with its priorities, not just procedural alignment so that reforms truly take place. A stronger, more resilient Western Balkans benefits the entire continent.
Watch full video below:
