Publication

This paper analyses how crime structures created during the Balkan wars of the 1990's continue to undermine the stability of this region. The author identifies organized crime, the unresolved political status issues, the stagnating economy, and political uncertainty, as major obstacles in the reconstruction of post-war Balkan societies. Furthermore, the paper argues that due to the transnational character of organized crime, Balkan stability is essential for European security. Since the prospect of becoming members of the EU in the future is the driving force behind efforts to rid them of their uncontrolled zones and practices, the paper provides several recommendations on how to improve the currently disorganized European strategy by suggesting a more pro-active, multi-disciplinary and trans-pillar approach in order to fight each aspect of organized criminal activity more efficiency.