The future of European integration and the evolving geopolitical landscape of the Western Balkans were at the centre of discussions at the 2BS Forum 2025 in Budva, one of the region’s key strategic and security gatherings.
The panel, titled “From Fog to Friction: Diverging Futures in the Western Balkans,” brought together policymakers, academics and regional experts to examine the challenges and opportunities facing the Western Balkans as the region continues to navigate an increasingly complex geopolitical environment.
The discussion was moderated by Dr. Sabina Lange, Director of Think Europe, and featured Marjan Šarec, Member of the European Parliament and Standing Rapporteur for Montenegro; Kenneth Morrison of De Montfort University; Zlatko Vujović of the Centre for Monitoring and Research (CeMI); and Dr. Frauke Seebass of the German Council on Foreign Relations (DGAP) and the Balkans in Europe Policy Advisory Group (BiEPAG).
A key focus of the discussion was the future of EU enlargement and the differing public perceptions surrounding the European integration process. Panelists explored how changing geopolitical realities are influencing attitudes towards enlargement, while also highlighting the importance of maintaining a credible, transparent and merit-based accession process.
The discussion also pointed to the need for stronger political commitment on both sides. Participants stressed that advancing the European perspective of the Western Balkans will require renewed political will, meaningful engagement and a genuine partnership between the European Union and countries across the region.
Against the backdrop of growing geopolitical uncertainty, the panel underscored the importance of ensuring that the EU enlargement process remains a credible strategic project — both for the countries aspiring to join the Union and for the EU itself.
The 2BS Forum 2025, hosted by the Atlantic Council of Montenegro, brought together regional and international experts to discuss pressing security and strategic challenges facing the Western Balkans and Europe.
