‘Handshake investments’ in the Western Balkans: When sultanism meets illiberalism

The topic of ‘foreign actors’ in the Western Balkans is often looked at through the lens of a clash between the West and the East, with media narratives frequently emphasising the role of Russia and highlighting the security and soft power dimensions. This seminar will deal with the economic influence of non-EU actors, focusing on a somewhat overlooked, and yet quite prominent, foreign investor in the region: the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Drawing on research carried out in Serbia, in Montenegro, and in the UAE, this seminar will trace the UAE’s involvement in the Western Balkans over the past few decades, analysing the motives for engagement and elaborating on the political culture underpinning the business deals. It will furthermore draw comparisons with the deals struck with other countries (including Russia and China), pinpointing similarities and differences, and reflecting on the consequences in terms of economic and democratic development and on how it reflects on the Europeanisation of the region.

This is event is free and open to all, no need to register.