From Security Consumers to Security Producers: The Western Balkans and Europe’s Defence

Dr. Ana Krstinovska and Dr. Alessandro Marrone, authors of the latest thematic report of the initiative think nea – New Narratives of EU Integration (supported by the Open Society Foundations – Western Balkans) titled “Europe’s Overlooked Allies: Why the Western Balkans Matter for EU Defence Readiness” published an op-ed on the magazine of the Italian think tank Istituto Affari Internazionali.

The authors argue that as the European Union redefines its strategic posture amid growing security challenges, the Western Balkans are emerging not as peripheral actors but as proactive contributors to European defence. This publication explores how the region is stepping up through increased defence spending, growing involvement in EU and NATO missions, and the development of efficient, cost-effective defence industries. It highlights the strategic value of integrating the Western Balkans into EU defence frameworks—not only to strengthen supply chains and readiness, but also to advance enlargement. From supplying artillery to Ukraine, to hosting large-scale military exercises, to offering industrial capacities aligned with NATO standards, the Western Balkans present an untapped asset for Europe’s security and strategic autonomy. The report calls for a more structured EU approach to defence integration with the region—one that treats these countries as real partners, not just future members.

You can read the op-ed in Italian here.

The full thematic report explores the strategic importance of the Western Balkans in the context of the EU’s pursuit of strategic autonomy and enhanced defence readiness.It underscores the argument that Western Balkan countries—despite not yet being EU member states—have increasingly proven their value as security contributors and partners. This contribution is both timely and essential as the EU confronts the implications of the war in Ukraine and potential shifts in the transatlantic security relationship. At the EU level, recent initiatives, such as the 2024 European Defence Industrial Strategy (EDIS) and the 2025 White Paper on European Defence, aim to enhance collective readiness and industrial capability. Yet, the full potential of regional partnerships—particularly with the Western Balkan region—has not been fully realized, undercutting the ability to leverage and further develop their defence capabilities.

You can read the thematic report here.