Title: A regional-based approach towards economic development in the Western Balkans

Authors: Qerim R. Qerimi, Bruno S. Sergi

Addresses: University of Pristina, Kosovo, Office of the Prime Minister of Kosovo (EU-funded Project), Kosovo. ' University of Messina, Italy; The University of Greenwich Business School, UK

Abstract: This paper deals with economic development in the Western Balkans, the effect of the European Union (EU) and its likely entrepreneurial sustainability. An |EU Factor| has been introduced, as it indicates that further EU enlargement could have a positive significant impact on business and economic expectations of international investors. The acquis communautaire is analysed together with a regional dimension of stability. Some common fundamental issues, such as regional cooperation as a means for promoting reconciliation and growth and development of Small- and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) as a means for economic growth and sustainable development, are addressed.

Keywords: regional development; The Balkans; EU factor; EU enlargement; European Union; economic development; entrepreneurial sustainability; entrepreneurship; sustainable development; regional cooperation; small and medium-sized enterprises; SMEs.

DOI: 10.1504/WREMSD.2008.018224

World Review of Entrepreneurship, Management and Sustainable Development, 2008 Vol.4 No.2/3, pp.182 - 202

Published online: 12 May 2008 *

Full-text access for editors Full-text access for subscribers Purchase this article Comment on this article