Vienna – ESI at consultation on the Western Balkans and European security

Kristof Bender. Photo: Res Publica Foundation

Adnan Ćerimagić, ESI’s senior analyst, took part in the Consultation on the Western Balkans and European Security, held on 15–16 October 2025 in Vienna, Austria. The event, organised by the Centre for Humanitarian Dialogue (HD), gathered diplomats, researchers, and former high-level officials to discuss the region’s place in the evolving European security architecture.

The consultation brought together prominent figures, including former high representative for Bosnia and Herzegovina; former member of the BiH presidency; and former foreign minister of Montenegro. Participants also included experts from Serbia, Albania, Turkey, North Macedonia, and international organisations such as OSCE and the United Nations.

Adnan opened the main working session, Options on Institutional Mechanisms for Security Guarantees in the Western Balkans, offering ESI’s analysis of the regional security context and the importance of credible European and transatlantic engagement. He contributed to discussions on how the EU and its partners can reinforce stability through integration, dialogue, and effective security guarantees.

• 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”