- July 06, 2023
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- July 06, 2023
On July 6, 2023, the Aspen Institute Germany held a foresight process workshop as part of the project “Western Balkans Initiative: Engagement for Progress and Stability” kindly supported by the German Federal Foreign Office. Under the title “Future of the Western Balkans in 2043”, a strategic foresight for the political development of the region was developed in multiple digital and one face-to-face workshop. This format was intended to provide an opportunity to step out of the sometimes short-term thinking of day-to-day politics and instead develop long-term strategic approaches. Accompanied by an expert moderator, non-governmental representatives from the Western Balkans and EU were to contribute their expertise to this process and act as thought leaders for their region.
The analysis of potential threats and the resulting development of future strategies to be adequately prepared for multiple challenges was at the center of the foresight process. This involves anticipating conflict, threats, and future scenarios. Due to the current density of crises and what many observers are currently calling a “world disorder”, uncertainties and the number of risk factors are increasing. Whether on the part of political actors, national governments, companies, international organizations, or civil society initiatives – the need for strategic foresight is growing. Among the questions addressed in the foresight process were: Which social and economic trends will be crucial for the Western Balkans in the future? What are the driving factors and how do they relate to each other? What upcoming challenges must the region prepare for? What geopolitical situations does it face? What is the role of the Western Balkans in Europe in 2043? What strategies can ensure long-term prosperity, stability, and sustainability in the region? How can democracy and the rule of law be consolidated over the coming decades?
The Aspen Institute Germany’s “Western Balkans Initiative: Engagement for Progress and Stability” was a step towards developing a long-term strategic approach for the region. By bringing together experts and thought leaders from the Western Balkans and the EU, this foresight process helped identify potential threats and develop future strategies.
