ECONOMIC INTEGRATION AND DEVELOPMENT IN THE SOUTHERN BALKANS

Since the end of the Kosovo war, regional economic integration has been seen as a key element of economic reconstruction and development in the Southern Balkans. Yet regional integration is hindered by barriers arising from political, economic and social factors specific to the region. The research will identify the major barriers to increasing cross-border linkages faced by local businesses in areas such as trade, investment and sub-contracting. It also investigates the difficulties they face in forming cross-border business alliances and networks. It will be based on field research carried out amongst businesses and policy makers in the region.