Mapping the Western Balkans and State of Democracies in Transition

This publication gathered experts from Western Balkans and the EU aiming to: 1) analyse the transformation of the SEE region in recent years: Is there a setback when it comes to rule of law and fundamental rights? Has the prospect of EU membership led to sustainable progress? Which variables contribute to the fact that some countries perform better than others? 2) analyse the state of social democracy and of the social democratic parties: What is the state of social democracy in the region? What has been the role of social democratic parties in reforming and modernising their countries? How did these parties develop over the years (also with regard to internal party democracy and party fragmentation)? How do they function? Are they an engine for societal change and sustainable development? Are they a credible alternative to nationalist and populist forces? 3) analyse the role of external actors in the SEE region: What has been the role of the EU? Does it lack a comprehensive strategy towards the region with regard to democracy and the rule of law? What has been the role of European social democrats and political foundations?