Western Balkans should prioritize EU economic integration

Ilija Dimovski, a former lawmaker, suggests that the Western Balkans should focus on closer economic integration with the European Union rather than relying solely on expectations of rapid political membership.

Dimovski noted that influential European centers, specifically Berlin and Paris, currently lack a clear political consensus regarding new EU enlargement. He argued that key stances are being shaped in these national capitals rather than just within Brussels institutions.

As an alternative strategy, he proposed that the region should proactively explore models such as associative membership or deeper ties to the European economic space. This approach would emphasize the free movement of people, goods, and services to foster cooperation.

Regarding regional competition, Dimovski stated that the integration process should not be viewed as a race between neighboring countries like Serbia and North Macedonia. He suggested that if enlargement occurs, a broad solution for the entire Western Balkans would be preferable to avoid regional imbalances. He also expressed skepticism regarding imminent changes to EU voting rules or the abolition of the veto power, citing upcoming election cycles in various European nations as factors that could shift the continent's political landscape.