scholarly journals Economic development in the European super-periphery: Evidence from the Western Balkans

2009 ◽  
Vol 54 (181) ◽  
pp. 21-44 ◽  
Author(s):  
Will Bartlett
Keyword(s):  
Economic Development ◽  
Rural Areas ◽  
Global Economy ◽  
Local Development ◽  
Western Balkans ◽  
Capital Cities ◽  
Informal Economies ◽  
Western Balkan Region ◽  
Balkan Region ◽  
Political Turmoil

This paper argues that the conflicts that afflicted the Western Balkan region in the 1990s pushed the countries into the European 'super-periphery', characterized by deindustrialization and high unemployment, ethnic and regional fragmentation, political turmoil, and instability. Integration into international trade has been disrupted, leading to chronic balance of payments deficits. Low inflows of international capital, due to high country risk, have hindered technological catch-up and weakened international competitiveness. An unattractive environment for productive entrepreneurship has created barriers to the entry of SMEs, and at the same time large informal economies. Several countries have become labour-export economies, with significant outflows of skilled labour. Economic development follows a low-skill growth path. The current global economic crisis is having a further deleterious effect as export revenues, foreign direct investment, and labour remittances all diminish. Furthermore, as transition has proceeded, disparities between capital cities and rural areas have increased, while weak administrative capacities have hindered the implementation of effective local development policies to counteract these effects. Endogenous local development cannot provide an alternative to greater engagement with the global economy. The conclusion is that the countries of the region have been left out of the most beneficial elements of the globalisation process, while simultaneously suffering from its main defects. Without a faster process of accession to the EU, local disparities are likely to widen, and the region may remain within the European super-periphery for the foreseeable future.

German Policy towards EU Enlargement

2015 ◽  
pp. 18-22
Author(s):  
F. Basov
Keyword(s):  
European Union ◽  
Developed Countries ◽  
Eu Enlargement ◽  
The European Union ◽  
Western Balkans ◽  
Eastern Partnership ◽  
Western Balkan Region ◽  
Balkan Region ◽  
The Stability ◽  
The Eu

This article is dedicated to the German policy towards the EU enlargement. Its history as well as the current German policy towards prospective enlargements are analyzed in this paper. The article offers party-political and sociological analysis of Germany`s attitude towards the EU enlargement, also the reasons for it are determined. FRG supported all of the European Community and European Union enlargements. This line is being continued, but nowadays only step to step approach is being supported. Germany‘s motives to the EU enlargement are based on the liberal concept of the common security. The main goals of this policy are the including of European countries into the Western community of developed countries (the EU), the extension of the stability and security area. The economic integration is also very important for Germany. The key priority of the EU enlargement is the Western Balkan region (the so called “Europeanisation” of Western Balkans). This process is being supported by political elites of the region and by the European Union itself. It is recognized, that the Europeanisation of Western Balkans was used as a sample for the Eastern Partnership Program. Without consideration of the Russian factor, though, this strategy towards the post-Soviet countries has many weaknesses. But the EU-membership for the Eastern Partnership members is not excluded.

scholarly journals The V4 Countries’ Foreign Policy concerning the Western Balkans

2018 ◽  
Vol 14 (2) ◽  
pp. 141-164
Author(s):  
Christina Griessler
Keyword(s):  
Foreign Policy ◽  
Role Models ◽  
Role Theory ◽  
Eu Enlargement ◽  
Western Balkans ◽  
National Interests ◽  
Foreign Policies ◽  
Western Balkan Region ◽  
European Values ◽  
Balkan Region

Abstract This contribution explores the Visegrad Four’s (V4) foreign policy initiatives in the Western Balkans by considering each state’s interests and policies and the evolution of joint V4 objectives. My underlying hypothesis is that the foreign policy‑related behaviour of individual states is shaped by certain roles that they assume and by their national interests. This work uses role theory to explain the V4 states’ foreign policies both generally and in the specific case of the Western Balkans. The V4 have prioritised cooperation with this region, and I analyse the programmes of the last four V4 presidencies (Slovakia 2014-2015, the Czech Republic 2015-2016, Poland 2016-2017 and Hungary 2017-2018) to reveal key foreign policy objectives and explore why they were selected. At the same time, I examine the interests of each V4 country and the reasons for their joint attention to the Western Balkan region. My analysis shows that the V4 perceive themselves as supportive and constructive EU and NATO members and see their policies as reflective of European values. Moreover, they believe they should contribute to EU enlargement by sharing experiences of economic and political transformation with the Western Balkan states and serving as role models.

scholarly journals EU PROSPECTS FOR BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA: BETWEEN STAGNATION AND GROWTH

2018 ◽  
pp. 21-39
Keyword(s):  
Bosnia And Herzegovina ◽  
Structural Reforms ◽  
Western Balkans ◽  
Financial Flows ◽  
The Public ◽  
Political Transformations ◽  
Macroeconomic Indicators ◽  
Western Balkan Region ◽  
Balkan Region

The aim of this paper is to point to the specificities of economic and political transformations in Bosnia and Herzegovina (B&H) and the Western Balkan in the context of economic and political changes in the global environment that can significantly affect the EU accession process. An analysis of the position of B&H in the group of Western Balkans countries and the perspective of economic growth was conducted by focusing on the political and economic criteria as well as on the current obstacles these countries are facing, specifically, based on their political and economic background and in conditions where external risks are growing. All these countries are commited to implementing structural reforms because the commitment of all the countries towards Europe, which means convergence towards the European countries and a reduction in the size of the GDP per capita. In order to achieve such long-term goals, it is necessary to implement structural reforms that will result in stimulating production, trade, financial flows and reforming the labor market and the public sector. That is why growth of investment and exports is the main determinant of long-term growth. This paper gives an overview of the basic economic features of B&H compared with the other countries that belong to Western Balkan region, as well as projections on the certain macroeconomic indicators in the forthcoming period.

scholarly journals EVALUATION OF SPATIAL DIFFERENTIATION OF SOCIO-ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT OF RURAL AREAS IN MAZOWIECKIE PROVINCE IN YEARS 2004-2016

2018 ◽  
Author(s):  
Mariola CHRZANOWSKA ◽  
Monika ZIELIŃSKA-SITKIEWICZ
Keyword(s):  
Economic Development ◽  
Rural Areas ◽  
Local Development ◽  
Spatial Differentiation ◽  
Research Area ◽  
The Other ◽  
Linear Ordering ◽  
Economic Diversification ◽  
Socio Economic Development ◽  
The Impact

Mazowieckie Province is a unique area of Poland. It is characterised by social and economic diversification. Located in this province, Warsaw strongly influences the development of neighbouring rural areas. On the other hand, rural municipalities whose socio-economic parameters are among the lowest in the country are located within several dozen kilometres from the centre of the capital. Such disparities show that Mazowieckie is characterised by large interregional differences in its internal structure. This is an interesting research area that requires the analysis of socio-economic development in this region to be conducted in a multidimensional way. The aim of this study is to evaluate the spatial differentiation of the level of socio-economic development of rural areas in Mazowieckie Province. Linear ordering was used to determine the level of socio-economic development. The results of the study are consistent with core-periphery theory. The large urban centres that function as the centres for the surrounding rural areas have the greatest impact on the level of rural development. The impact of smaller towns can also be noticed. They often are the local development centres for surrounding villages.

scholarly journals Social and economic development of the Lublin voivodeship

2019 ◽  
pp. 126-136
Author(s):  
Maria Miczyńśka-Kowalska
Keyword(s):  
Economic Development ◽  
Rural Areas ◽  
Global Economy ◽  
Geographical Location ◽  
Educational Process ◽  
Technological Advancement ◽  
The Social ◽  
Study Results ◽  
Social And Economic Development ◽  
Modern Technologies

Relevance of research topic. Development is determined by consecutive social and structural formations that describe economic systems of particular societies, religion, features of the social structure, demographic factors, discoveries, inventions, culture diffusions, social movements. In the 21st century, the global economy has been subject to changes. Currently, greater attention is drawn to knowledge, modern technologies and innovations. Development consists of many factors, e.g. geographical location, natural resources, financial capital, human capital, use of modern technologies, government policy. The Lublin Voivodeship is one of the poorest developing regions of Poland. Subject of research. This paper is about the social and economic development of the Lublin Voivodeship. Purpose. Theoretical and practical analysis of theoretical and practical dimensions of the social and economic development based on the example of Lublin Voivodeship. Methods. Analysis of statistical data correlated with an analysis of literature sources. Study results. So far the Lublin Voivodeship has been mainly an agricultural region. The lack of well-developed industrialisation and land fragmentation are conditioned by the situation from before ages. The Lublin region is also relatively poorly developed with regard to infrastructure. Migrations from the region also pose a threat. Its great potential in the form of academic facilities and tourism constitutes its advantage. Application of results. Research of economic and social development problems, regional studies, educational process. Conclusions according to the article. Long-term development of the Lublin region should be based on its identified advantages. As data show, they include agricultural production, well-educated employees and tourist assets of the region. The 2014-2020 Strategy for the Lublin Voivodeship Development establishes four strategic directions of activities: strengthening of the region's urban development; restructuring of agriculture and development of rural areas; selective increase in the potential of knowledge, technological advancement, regional entrepreneurship; functional, both spatial and social (cultural) integration of the region. A part of solutions introducing changes should be initiated at the local, self-governmental level. Activities aimed at the development of subregional towns, connected with transfer of some services from Lublin, which already has the good development potential, are important. Use of support at the regional level and use of the EU funds under implemented programmes are necessary.

Border disputes will keep Balkan region unstable

2017 ◽  
Keyword(s):  
Economic Development ◽  
Adverse Impact ◽  
Business Continuity ◽  
Western Balkans ◽  
Potential Conflict ◽  
Content Type ◽  
The Balkans ◽  
Balkan Region ◽  
International Border ◽  
The Eu

Subject Intensifying disputes over several borders in the Western Balkans. Significance Croatia and Slovenia are at odds over their maritime border in the Adriatic. Kosovo rejects Montenegro’s claim to a parcel of land which Kosovo currently controls, while Serbia is mounting a challenge to the very existence of its border with Kosovo. Bosnian Serbs are threatening to create a new international border with the rest of Bosnia-Hercegovina (BiH). Impacts Border disputes will have an adverse impact on economic development and business continuity in the affected areas. Border disputes will frustrate the integration of the Balkans with the EU and NATO. Disputes over borders will provide a flashpoint for potential conflict, especially in Kosovo and BiH.

scholarly journals SUPPORTING ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT IN RURAL AREAS UNDER THE FRAMEWORK OF LOCAL DEVELOPMENT STRATEGIES

2019 ◽  
Vol XXI (3) ◽  
pp. 522-531
Author(s):  
Paweł Zasadzki
Keyword(s):  
Social Capital ◽  
Economic Development ◽  
Rural Areas ◽  
Local Development ◽  
Social Activity ◽  
Secondary Data ◽  
Desk Research ◽  
The Eu ◽  
Stimulation Of

Social and economic growth relies on the presence of prosperous companies. There are many factors that define the level of entrepreneurship, for example opportunities to undertake cooperation and create networks of companies, or the quality of social capital. The key role is played by actions implemented to strengthen the economic and social activity of local communities. This can be facilitated by one of the sub-measures of the EU programme LEADER, namely “Sub-measure 19.2. Implementation of operations within the strategies for community-led local development”. The main aim of this study has been to diagnose and assess this support in rural areas of the Province of Warmia and Mazury. Secondary data were analyzed with both desk research and statistical methods. The funds allocated under the mentioned sub-measure (482 contracts) enabled beneficiaries to start and develop their own companies in rural areas (261 agreements reached approximately PLN 30 million). Some funds were also spent on improving the situation with regard to the identified weaknesses of this region e.g. weak consistency communication, low level of cooperation and social capital. The implementation of operations under Sub-measure 19.2 should result in the alleviation of weaknesses identified for the province and the stimulation of socio-economic development of the voivodship.

Policing Via Principles: Reforming the Use of Force in the Western Balkans

2008 ◽  
Vol 22 (2) ◽  
pp. 319-346 ◽  
Author(s):  
Suzette R. Grillot
Keyword(s):  
Law Enforcement ◽  
Use Of Force ◽  
International Standards ◽  
Western Balkans ◽  
Police Reform ◽  
Democratic Reform ◽  
Western Balkan Region ◽  
Law Enforcement Officials ◽  
Balkan Region ◽  
National Police

After a significant period of violent conflict in the Western Balkans, countries in the region, specifically Albania, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Croatia, Macedonia, Serbia-Montenegro, and the United Nations (UN) protectorate of Kosovo, have embarked on a process of democratic reform. Part of the democratization effort involves reforming the police force. One important, yet not often studied, aspect of police reform is the appropriate use of force with firearms. This study explores the process of police reform in the Western Balkan region to assess the implementation of the UN Basic Principles on the Use of Force and Firearms by Law Enforcement Officials. Ultimately, this study offers a view of law enforcement activities in an attempt to assess how well these countries are incorporating international standards on the use of force with firearms into their national police practices. In so doing, this research enriches our understanding of weapons issues within the context of security sector, and specifically police reform.

scholarly journals The Western Balkans: Weak performance since the crisis

2018 ◽  
Vol 68 (s2) ◽  
pp. 85-120
Author(s):  
Marek Dabrowski ◽  
Yana Myachenkova
Keyword(s):  
Economic Growth ◽  
Global Financial Crisis ◽  
Western Balkans ◽  
Eu Accession ◽  
Institutional Reforms ◽  
Western Balkan Region ◽  
Speed Up ◽  
Balkan Region ◽  
The Global Financial Crisis ◽  
The Eu

In the early and mid-2000s, the prospect of EU accession and the global boom facilitated rapid economic recovery and boosted economic and institutional reforms in the Western Balkan region. The global financial crisis of 2007–2009 and the European crisis of 2010–2013 slowed the pace of economic growth and amplified high unemployment in the region. In addition, various unresolved legacies from past conflicts slowed the pace of reform and progress towards EU accession. The European Commission’s February 2018 communication sets an indicative deadline (2025) for the two most advanced candidates – Serbia’s and Montenegro’s admission to the EU. This could incentivise all Western Balkan countries, including those candidates that have not yet started membership negotiations (Macedonia and Albania) and those waiting for candidate status (Bosnia and Herzegovina and Kosovo), to remove domestic political obstacles to EU accession, solve conflicts with neighbours, speed up reforms and accelerate economic growth.

scholarly journals THEORETICAL APPROACHES TO LOCAL DEVELOPMENT IN THE CONTEXT OF RURAL AREAS

2018 ◽  
Vol 17 (3) ◽  
pp. 113-119
Author(s):  
Maciej Stawicki
Keyword(s):  
Economic Development ◽  
Rural Development ◽  
Regional Development ◽  
Rural Areas ◽  
Local Development ◽  
Scientific Research ◽  
Theoretical Approaches ◽  
Socio Economic Development

The aim of the work is to make a synthetic review of definitions of regional and local development in economic terms in relation to rural development. Rural development is a topic often taken up in scientific research by sociologists, geographers and economists, but it is not defined in a specific way, and is usually understood as development in relation to rural areas. Therefore, the paper presents an overview of various approaches to local development and regional development, using the method of literature studies. The work has reviewed many approaches, features and definitions of socio-economic development as well as regional and local development, which also refer to rural areas and finally proposed a place for rural development in regional and local development.

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