Peace and Security in the Western Balkans: A Local Perspective (Southeast European Studies)

This book outlines the main security threats, actors, and processes in the Western Balkans following the dissolution of Yugoslavia. Exploring the state of peace and security in the region it asks if a stable peace is achievable. The comparative framework explores state perspectives – from Serbia, Montenegro, Northern Macedonia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Albania, and Kosovo – alongside military, political-societal, economic, and environmental security concerns. The interplay of international actors is also considered. Academics, scholars, and practitioners who deal with Balkan issues, either as a focus or comparatively, and have interests in security and peace studies will find the volume invaluable along with students of political science, security studies, peace studies, area studies (Eastern European studies and/or Southeast European studies), and international studies in general. "This book outlines the main security threats, actors and processes in the Western Balkans following the dissolution of Yugoslavia. Exploring the state of peace and security in the region it asks if a stable peace is achievable. The comparative framework explores state perspectives - from Serbia, Montenegro, Northern Macedonia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Albania and Kosovo - alongside military, political-societal, economic, environmental security concerns. The interplay of international actors is also considered. Academics, scholars, and practitioners who deal with Balkan issues, either as a focus or comparatively, and have interests in security and peace studies will find the volume invaluable along with students of Political Science, Security Studies, Peace Studies, Area studies (Eastern European studies and/or Southeast European studies), and International studies in general"-- Provided by publisher In its transition from a security receiver to a security provider, Albania has undertaken important reforms in its security, defence and foreign policy sectors. The country joined NATO in 2009. It fully aligns with the EU's common defence and security policy, contributes to international crisis management and peacekeeping missions, and continues to play a constructive and moderating role for stability in the region. Nevertheless, key challenges remain in its domestic vulnerabilities and incapacities. This chapter looks at the Albanian security context, the threats it faces and their complexity, and the major relevant discourses, reforms and practices. It also discusses the future shifts that will be necessary to prioritize and practice security in Albania