'European integration of the Western Balkans does not mean territorial, but fundamental changes'

VIENNA, (Patria) – European integration of the Western Balkans does not mean territorial changes. It signifies fundamental changes, which function in a broader orientation towards fundamental European values. The European Union is the most important force in the region in promoting democracy, the rule of law, and respect for human rights and minority rights. The European enlargement policy has had a real impact on shaping actual circumstances in the region,” said Secretary General of the Regional Cooperation Council (RCC) Majlinda Bregu, speaking this morning in Vienna at the 16th Vienna Congress titled “Shaping the Future”.

In her address to the congress, Secretary General Bregu spoke about the European Union and its southeastern neighbors, i.e., the challenges and opportunities for the Balkans, emphasizing that “Europe is a state of mind. Communication and attention should be redirected from EU accession dates, unfounded fears of enlargement, or enlargement fatigue, to the real democratic transformation of the Western Balkans. An empowered Western Balkans, through the advancement of national reforms and regional cooperation, will speak the language of unity among citizens, which will affect the economic development of the region,” added Bregu.

Bregu reminded that currently the most optimistic in supporting EU membership are people in Kosovo (84%) and Albania (83%), in the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia and Montenegro, the percentage of those who consider membership a good thing is still higher (59% and 53% respectively), while in Bosnia and Herzegovina 45% of people believe membership is a good thing, and Serbia is the only economy in the region where those who are neutral regarding EU membership (39%) are numerically larger than those who are in favor of membership (29%), as can be seen from the Balkan Barometer, a survey by the Regional Cooperation Council, for 2018.

As one of the most respectable international economic congresses, the Vienna Congress represents a network of highly valued leaders and decision-makers who gather and discuss major European economic challenges and prospects.