engleski

Absorption capacities of Western Balkan countries – perspectives of EU cohesion process

The recent economic crisis has underlined the need to review and strengthen economic governance, especially in Western Balkans countries (WBC). As these countries are affected by high unemployment and significant levels of poverty (in general, more than European Union members), it is crucial to engage in comprehensive reforms to enable sustainable growth and improved competitiveness. In the last decade WBC realized approximately 30- 40% of the EU average of GDP per capita in PPS, without considerable improvements. Although some new member countries managed to accelerate growth after they joined the EU, it is also evident from other cases that being an EU member does not automatically mean constant improvements. That is why WBC, as candidates for the membership, should prepare their administrative and financial systems for achieving economic and social development goals. Appropriate absorption capacity of EU funds should accelerate their convergence toward higher levels of welfare and competitiveness. In this respect, principles of the EU Cohesion Policy and raising the level of administrative and financial capacity become very important issues, especially because most disadvantaged countries experience greatest difficulties in the absorption of European funds. Comparing with funds available to EU Member States, financial and economic effects of pre-accession funds (such as IPA) concern smaller amounts, but lessons learned from those programmes are decisive for successful management of EU funds available in the future. Generally, better planning, preparing and targeting, as well as adequate strategies and prioritizing on crucial issues emanate more efficiency and sustainability. In the area of poverty, exclusion and unemployment fundamental changes should occur with administrative reforms, education of experts, better involvement of relevant stakeholders etc.

Absorption Capacity, Western Balkans, Cohesion Policy, European Union

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