ABOUT THE PROJECT

The overarching goal of the project is to shed light on the economic integration of the Western Balkans into the EU single market, as well as on the region’s progress in the digital and green transitions. Through in-depth economic analysis, Bruegel will assess key policy areas that can support these three critical transitions, which are essential for the region’s future growth and EU membership prospects.

The research will examine trade barriers hindering integration with the EU single market, the region’s innovation performance and potential, and challenges related to climate change. It will also analyse the implications of EU-related reforms and the EU budgetary implications of these transitions.

LOCAL IMPACT

At the local level, the project aims to analyse and address issues relevant to regional integration into European value chains, as well as the barriers firms face when exporting to the EU. I

In the context of the green transition, the project will assess how climate change affects the Western Balkan economies. These topics will be examined from a Western Balkans perspective and directly address EU-related reforms that must be advanced for the Growth Plan to be fully implemented. The project will also explore additional questions related to the above themes.

PROGRESS TO DATE

The project began in October 2025 and will span over two year-period. During this period, it will address the proposed topics, assess priorities, and lay the groundwork for more detailed analyses in the following years.