Tuzla – ESI lecture on EU enlargement and the Western Balkans

Tuzla. Photo: flickr/Zlatko Babic

Adnan Ćerimagić, ESI’s senior analyst, delivered an online guest lecture to master’s students of political studies and international relations at the University of Tuzla on 7 April 2026.

The lecture focused on the EU accession process in the Western Balkans, examining both the technical steps of negotiations and the broader political dynamics shaping enlargement.

Adnan presented ESI’s analysis of current challenges, including reform stagnation, shifting priorities within the European Union, and the impact of geopolitical developments on enlargement policy.

Students engaged in a discussion on the prospects for Bosnia and Herzegovina’s EU path, the role of domestic reforms, and the importance of credible EU commitments. Particular attention was given to the relationship between democratic governance, rule of law reforms, and the pace of accession negotiations.

ESI continues to engage with academic institutions across the region, contributing to the education of future policymakers and fostering informed debate on European integration and democratic reform.

• ESI proposal: “Preventing violence – transform Kosovo dialogue”
• ESI background: “Scoreboard - The true state of accession - What the Commission assessments reveal”
• ESI proposal: “End the turtle race How the EU can address the crisis of the accession process”
• ESI proposal: “Offer the four freedoms to the Balkans, Ukraine, and Moldova For a merit-based EU accession process with a credible goal”
• ESI proposal: “47 again? Russia out, Kosovo in Support Kosovo’s membership in the Council of Europe”
• ESI proposal: “Abandon clichés about Bosnia: Push EU-related reforms instead of arbitrary conditions”
• ESI proposal: “No partition: Why Kosovo and Serbia must not discuss territory”
• ESI report: “Anti-Corruption Report for the West Balkans: Measure corruption in order to fight it”