Conclusions

Abstract

Because of widespread domestic discontent with economic stagnation, corruption and the uncertainties related to the process of accession to the EU, Brussels attempted to re-launch the European perspective for Western Balkan states. Whether such a perspective will succeed and influence the deeper political and social structures in the region remains to be seen. Meanwhile, patterns of semi-authoritarian political rule involving the exercise of power through party dominance and patron–client networks are ever more common. Domestic leaders are both increasingly authoritarian and self-proclaimed pro-European democrats, while the EU is willing to turn a blind eye to local politicians’ practices as long as they deliver on issues which represent a priority for member states, such as border control, fighting terrorism or regional stability. In this context, peacebuilders have increasingly endorsed notions of pragmatism and resilience—further sidelining liberal transformative ambitions.