Western Balkans show uneven EU Growth Plan fund utilization

Western Balkan nations are showing significant disparities in utilizing the European Union’s 6 billion euro Growth Plan. As of May 2026, only 11.2% of the total funds have been disbursed across the region, leaving approximately 5.33 billion euros undistributed.

Albania, Montenegro, and North Macedonia have led the region in fund utilization due to relative political stability and the implementation of required reforms. Albania has received approximately 212.8 million euros, bolstered by energy sector reforms including the installation of 600 MW of renewable energy capacity and the approval of a new electricity sector law. These reforms have also paved the way for the disbursement of an additional 61 million euros in EU funds.

In contrast, Kosovo, Serbia, and Bosnia and Herzegovina have struggled to access funds due to political crises and delays in implementing reform agendas. Kosovo has utilized only 7% of its allocated amount, totaling 61.8 million euros, hampered by internal political instability and a lack of functional government consensus. Bosnia and Herzegovina has yet to receive any funds under this instrument. All projects supported by the Growth Plan must be completed by the end of 2027.