Publication

Given the Western Balkans’ progress over the last two decades, engagement in the region by European powers and the US has waned. However, this report suggests that the US must now abandon its existing policy of benign neglect. Further, to move things along the text’s authors also outline several steps the US ought to take to help pave the way for a more secure and prosperous region, including that it should 1) establish a permanent military presence in Southeastern Europe; 2) pursue rapprochement with Serbia; 3) work to regain Washington’s reputation as an honest broker; and 4) help create economic opportunities for those in the region who exist outside its political patronage networks.