The external dimension of the eu's area of Freedom, Security and Justice in relation to the western Balkan Countries

The briefing paper touches upon important aspects of the internal security of the Western Balkan countries and relates them to the specific challenges for - as well as activities of - the EU in this respect. The study notes that organised crime, migration, and other challenges to internal security within the current EU can be tackled only with the help of the neighbouring countries. Key problems are how to deal with the legacy of wars, ethno-national tensions, open status questions, territorial integrity and state-building. The study also concludes that in the end, these problems can only be solved in the long run. Economic development, broadening of democratic traditions and the strengthening of the rule of law should be part of a broader strategy. As this will be a lengthy process, it could cause some frustration in the Western Balkan States. The study recommends to the European Parliament to insist on democratic procedures and to help to reduce the looming irritations of the relevant actors in the region.