The Western Balkans in the World: Linkages and Relations with Non-Western Countries

This book provides a detailed understanding of how different types of engagements impact upon the reform and EU integration of the Western Balkan region. It examines the influence of Russia, China, Turkey and the UAE in the region and analyses the range of existing links.

Contributors offer an academic and multifaceted perspective of the role of external and non-Western actors in the region that goes beyond, one the one hand, the tendency of some Western decision-makers to perceive all engagement by third powers as a sinister threat and, on the other, the view of regional governments of all external involvement as a boon coming at a times of Western neglect and reduced foreign investments. By looking at the importance of Russia, Turkey, China and the UAE in the Western Balkans, the book sheds light on one key arena of global competition, offers new insights on the strengths and weaknesses of Euroatlantic integration and advances our knowledge of foreign policy and its economic, social and security dimensions for small and medium sized countries.

It will be of interest to academics, postgraduate and research students, and think-tankers with research interest in IR and Southeast European Studies. European decision-makers will also gain an insight into the extent of non-Western influence in the region.

Florian Bieber is Professor for Southeast European History and Politics at the University of Graz and director of the Centre for Southeast European Studies.

Nikolaos Tzifakis is Associate Professor of International Relations at the Department of Political Science and International Relations of the University of the Peloponnese.