The Balkans in Europe Policy Advisory Group (BiEPAG), in cooperation with the Austrian Institute for International Affairs (oiip), is pleased to invite you to a public panel discussion on the future of EU enlargement, regional security, and Europe’s geopolitical role in the Western Balkans titled:

Is the EU Ready? Security, Enlargement, and Europe’s Geopolitical Responsibility

With ongoing debates about the United States’ evolving posture in Europe, its shifting approach towards Milorad Dodik, possible adjustments to its presence in Kosovo, and the broader uncertainties surrounding its strategic priorities, the European Union is increasingly challenged in defining its own geopolitical positioning in the Western Balkans. At the same time, the wars in the Middle East are further reshaping global security dynamics, adding to the pressure on the EU to articulate a coherent and credible foreign and security policy response.

In light of shifting transatlantic dynamics, growing geopolitical uncertainty, and renewed debates on the future of EU enlargement, this panel will explore whether the European Union is prepared to assume greater strategic responsibility in the Western Balkans and beyond.

Date & Time:
Thursday, 9 April 2026
17:00 - 18:30

Venue:
oiip
Währinger Straße 3/12, 1090 Wien

Panelists:
Marina Vulović, Lecturer, University of Potsdam, BiEPAG Member
Damir Kapidžić, Associate Professor, University of Sarajevo, BiEPAG Member
Donika Emini, Researcher, University of Graz, BiEPAG Member
Florian Bieber, University Professor, University of Graz, BiEPAG Coordinator

Moderated by:
Vedran Džihić, Senior Researcher, oiip, BiEPAG Member

Please register here.

The panel discussion will be held in English.