NATO’s Capabilities in Global Governance: On the Balkan Scene

In this paper, the development and status of North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) in Western Balkans is examined. NATO’s regional expansion can be considered a part general NATO to East. Unhindered eastward progress lasted until 2006, when Russia came back on Balkan scene with strategic South Stream pipeline project. The unexpected appearance new actor led an intensification membership process. Further, Russia’s presence indirectly initiated other meaningful events peninsula, such as self-declaration Kosovo’s independence. Today, remains primary irritant for collective western policy Balkans. Allies put considerable pressure actors avoid closer economic political ties Moscow. There are apparent efforts underway bring all kinds interaction Russian Federation under overall control. Since 2014, local members candidates have pursued strongly pronounced anti-Russian policy. relies its traditionally strong relationship states. Moscow brings alternative model cooperation development. Both bids raise questions. Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) has not proven viability effectiveness either medium- or long-term perspective; regardless, it competes highly desired but elusive European (EU) membership. All together requires more from West maintain dominating role position region; downgrades previously achieved capabilities terms global governance scene.