TOWARDS GRADUAL INTEGRATION OF THE WESTERN BALKANS INTO THE EUROPEAN UNION: THE CASE OF SERBIA

This paper examined whether the revised enlargement methodology represented another step in direction of gradual EU membership Western Balkans. The research problem was based on considerations that domain has for years been characterized by political stagnation. aimed to show a differentiated accession approach might have beneficial Serbia, as front-runner candidate. In terms methods, author analyzes concepts and applicability ‘three-tiered accession’ ‘staged accession’, having mind recently altered methodology. argues integration would two reasons: 1) validating candidates’ already achieved progress, offering tangible incentives, potentially preventing democratic backsliding; 2) taking pre-scheduled dates off table. Considering is unlikely expand further, concludes concept apply solely WB, while also reassuring Member States regarding primacy individual merits excluding speedy accessions proposals.