The Western Balkans although advanced enormously in the last 20 years, however this region is not without its problems. Judiciary reform processes and political institutions remain to be strengthened, while organised crime and corruption need to be further combated. Freedom of expression and freedom of the media are still lacking and, though the regions’ economies are weathering the crisis quite well, much remains to be done to foster long-term economic growth. Through the stabilisation and association process, the region has reached the point where membership in the EU is a realistic objective. To download the full report click here.

[Friends of Europe]