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The Spectre of an Arms Race in the Western Balkans
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Corporate Editor
Institut für Friedensforschung und Sicherheitspolitik an der Universität Hamburg (IFSH)
Abstract
Security in the Western Balkans has recently deteriorated due to heightened geopolitical tensions, EU enlargement fatigue and democratic backsliding. Despite some positive developments, Bosnia and Herzegovina remains unstable, and the Belgrade/Pristina dialogue is still deadlocked. In addition, all ... view more
Security in the Western Balkans has recently deteriorated due to heightened geopolitical tensions, EU enlargement fatigue and democratic backsliding. Despite some positive developments, Bosnia and Herzegovina remains unstable, and the Belgrade/Pristina dialogue is still deadlocked. In addition, all Western Balkan states have increased their defence budgets and have engaged in military modernization. At the same time, policymakers and the media in the region often evoke the spectre of military competition and an arms race. This Policy Brief shows that, although the letter of the Agreement on Sub-Regional Arms Control signed in Florence in 1996 is still being complied with, these developments have already eroded trust in the region. If allowed to unfold, they could lead to further escalation in the future.... view less
Keywords
Southeastern Europe; Bosnia and Herzegovina; Croatia; Serbia; Montenegro; arms race; defense modernization; arms control
Classification
Peace and Conflict Research, International Conflicts, Security Policy
Free Keywords
Bedrohungsvorstellungen (Sicherheitspolitik); militärischer Kräftevergleich
Document language
English
Publication Year
2020
City
Hamburg
Page/Pages
4 p.
Series
IFSH Policy Brief, 02/20
Status
Published Version; reviewed