Perspectives of Serbian-Albanian relations in the light of the "Open Balkans" initiative

Abstract

The paper aims to show the possibilities and perspectives of improving Serbian-Albanian relations through the establishment of the "Open Balkans" project. Confrontation policies enabled the creation of inter-ethnic intolerance and provided support to political elites, leading these societies in the direction of conflicts and rejection of mutual cooperation. In the era when Serbia and Albania are trying to become part of the European Union, there are numerous obstacles and a lack of support from European countries on this path. Accordingly, these countries initiated regional political and economic integration. "Open Balkans" was designed as an initiative of the countries of the Western Balkans with the aim of advancing these countries on the European path. Part of the criticism of this project is reflected in the expectation of help from the countries of the European Union, which was absent in the original processes of European integration. This initiative represents a mini-precedent in the European history of integration and is the way to restore friendly Serbian-Albanian relations. "Open Balkans" should open a new economic space for cooperation between Serbian and Albanian economies, help overcome inter-ethnic prejudices and create preconditions for faster adoption of European values.