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Discussion on the revised Dutch approach in the Western Balkans
The EU should rethink its approach and regain legitimacy in the Western Balkans region, it was pointed out during the event BCSP organized on May 16, in Hague, in cooperation with organized by Leiden University, Central and East European Studies Centre, Peace Analytics and GTGC Conflict, Peace, and Security stream.
“Enlargement has become a toxic word in the EU, many shy away from using it, but we see it as a way to expand and rethink the borders of Europe and hope Western Balkans can become a part of it”, pointed out BCSP Deputy Director Bojan Elek opening the event in Hague.
During the discussion, BCSP researcher Luka Šterić underlined that there are many things that need to be changed and fine-tuned in the EU approach. In his view, we need to bring the focus of the accession process back to its core idea, combining the credible perspective for full membership and clear conditions when it comes to reforms as the driver of transformation in the Western Balkans.
“Stabilocracy and geopolitics should not push the rule of law out of the EU accession agenda”, pointed out Šterić.
Arlinda Rrustemi, a lecturer at Leiden University, has presented the Dutch strategy and involvement in the region, emphasizing the dedication to the strict but fair approach, especially when it comes to the rule of law reforms. Thijs Reuten, the MP at the European Parliament, has prioritized honesty in the assessment of the current state of affairs in the region and advocated for stronger European commitment in the immediate future. Tony van der Togt, the representative of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the senior research associate from Clingendael Institute, has underlined that the main agency for reforms has to be in the hands of the local leaders, but that the EU needs to find a more efficient solution to stimulate this process.
At the event, it was highlighted that the EU should regain legitimacy in the Western Balkans region. This could be achieved through providing accurate reporting on key reform priorities, including democratic backsliding, rule of law, and foreign policy blunders of the WB countries, and also refraining to use double standards while providing statements and implementing policies in the region. Additionally, regaining legitimacy could be done also by connecting with the citizens of the Western Balkans through strategic communication campaigns.
Tags: eu, western balkans
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