The Political Economy of Southeast Europe from 1990 to the Present

(Hardback)

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Description

Political instability and military clashes in the Balkans during the 1990s resulted in many countries joining the European Union, or obtaining the status of candidate countries. Many others are hoping to do so soon, while moving toward greater socioeconomic stability. The co-authors of this book, both experts in the politics and economics of the region, argue that the Balkan Peninsula is a critical region in the struggle for international stability today. The Political Economy of Southeast Europe from 1990 to the Present takes the reader on a historical journey through the region. The authors examine the process of European Union enlargement, with a particular focus on the integration of the Balkans. They also look closely at economic growth in the region, and pursue ideas for more effective policies against corruption and organized crime. The Political Economy of Southeast Europe from 1990 to the Present clearly illustrates the causes that have conditioned policy response and prospective policy options. The book paints a definitive picture of a Peninsula that needs to move toward a clear and lasting membership of the European Union.

Reviews

"The book by Bruno Sergi and Qerim Qerimi is a very welcomed, timely and path-breaking survey of the main trends in the political economy of Southeastern Europe. The book will be a must for any specialist in the field. It covers many areas of research previously neglected by scholars of the region. It is a refreshing and incisive contribution that highlights important processes of economic, social and political change taking place in the volatile Balkan peninsula." - Shinasi A. Rama, Ph.D., Clinical Associate Professor of Politics, New York University, USA
"Bruno Sergi and Qerim Qerimi continue productive collaboration in this concise, information-packed evaluation of alternative paths for the Western Balkans to achieve full EU membership. Up-to-date statistics and well-documented analysis support their thesis that the global common interest is best served by the region's economic prosperity founded upon participatory democratic stability. Without losing sight of the nuts-and-bolts requirements for accession, they demonstrate a need for indigenous development of principled economic and political institutions that enhance state capacity. The book serves as a valuable balance to recent, outstanding scholarly literature on the region, such as Elizabeth Pond's Endgame in the Balkans." - Prof. James P. Bennett, Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs, Syracuse University, USA
"...The book The Political Economy of Southeast Europe from 1990 to the Present: Challenges and Opportunities by Bruno S. Sergi and Qerim R. Qerimi analyses the economic and political transformation of the Balkans and provides an extensive overview of the reasons, conditions and factors concerning the recent instability and the current situation...The book ultimately develops the background for possible answers to these questions. It shows the main challenges for this model in western Europe and illuminates the issue of reforming the welfare state in Eastern Europe. [The book] is addressed to students, professionals and the general public. The publication provides comprehensive descriptions and explanations, including profound data material concerning the economic and political transformation in south-east Europe from which readers will gain a better understanding of the entire region." - Jrg Jurkeit, South-East Europe Review, April 2007 -- Jrg Jurkeit

Author Bio

Bruno S. Sergi is currently teaching Political Economy and International Economics at the University of Messina. He is currently a Visiting Fellow at The University of Greenwich Business School in London (September 2005 - August 2008) and Senior Researcher, Transfer of Knowledge Marie Curie Action, 6th Framework Programme of the European Union, University of Szczecin (April 2007 - March 2008). Most recently he has been a Visiting Professor: New York University, summer session of 2005 and 2007. Qerim Qerimi is currently teaching at the University of Prishtina and is working in his expert capacity with an EU-funded project in the Office of the Prime Minister of Kosovo. He is also editor-in-chief of Human Rights & Policy Journal and the International Journal of Trade and Global Markets.