Despite ongoing calls from the EU for reform and European integration, the Western Balkans continue to struggle with opposing political agendas and institutional polarization. This public panel will explore the evolving relationship between the EU and the Western Balkans, focusing on whether the EU still serves as a transformative power in the region.

The International Institute for Peace, in collaboration with the Austrian Institute for International Affairs (oiip), the Karl-Renner Institut, and The Balkan Forum, warmly invites you to join us for a special public panel event, followed by a pleasant Christmas Get-Together!

The clear victory of Donald Trump, which had been predicted to be a tight race, caught many in the EU by surprise. Why, despite his harsh and aggressive rhetoric, was Donald Trump still successful? In times of increasing polarization not only in the US but also in European countries, is the EU prepared for another Trump presidency?

Hannes Swoboda

Es ist nicht leicht, Trumps außenpolitische und militärische Aktivitäten schon Wochen vor seinem Amtsantritt zu beurteilen. Aber er war ja schon einmal Präsident und vom ihm selbst, aber auch aus seiner früheren und gegenwärtigen Umgebung, gibt es etliche Anhaltspunkte um eine vorläufige Beurteilung vorzunehmen.

In a post-election analysis, experts discussed the implications of Trump’s victory on both American democracy and Europe’s security, particularly regarding U.S. support for Ukraine. They noted that Trump’s approach might return to unilateral actions, impacting U.S.-EU trade relations and responses to the Middle East crisis, in contrast to a potential Harris administration’s diplomatic approach. Strong positions on China and potential divergences on climate and immigration policies were also highlighted as areas that could reshape EU-U.S. relations under a Trump administration.

The European Union claims to protect its citizens, values and interests and act as a contributor to international peace and security. At the same time, its immediate neighbourhood is becoming ever more conflict-prone and dangerous, thus presenting a huge challenge for the EU. The future of the European security order is at stake, the economic model of Europe is being put into question by geopolitics, migration affects the political and societal cohesion throughout the EU.