Produced within the framework of think nea – New Narratives of EU Integration, an initiative supported by Open Society Foundations – Western Balkans, this publication examines the strategic relevance of the Western Balkans for Europe’s defence readiness and long-term strategic autonomy.

Authored by Dr. Ana Krstinovska (ELIAMEP; think nea) and Dr. Alessandro Marrone (Istituto Affari Internazionali; think nea), the report argues that Western Balkan countries, despite not yet being EU member states, are increasingly credible security contributors and indispensable partners. Against the backdrop of Russia’s war in Ukraine and mounting pressure on Europe’s defence-industrial base, the analysis highlights how the region’s industrial capacities, operational commitments, and strategic location align with key EU defence priorities.

The report shows that Western Balkan defence industries and armed forces already contribute to ammunition production, unmanned systems, logistics, military mobility, and CSDP missions, while also providing tangible support to Ukraine.

The authors call for a more integrated approach that links defence cooperation with EU enlargement, positioning the Western Balkans not as security consumers, but as proactive contributors to Europe’s resilience, readiness, and strategic autonomy.