Governance Challenges in the Green Transition: Insights from the Western Balkans
The Western Balkans (WB) region stands at a pivotal moment. As countries strive toward a sustainable and climate-resilient future, they must also confront a host of governance challenges that hinder progress.
The green transition is a critical priority for the Western Balkans for several reasons. First, the region is acutely vulnerable to the effects of climate change, including extreme weather events, water scarcity, and biodiversity loss. Embracing sustainable environmental practices is vital for safeguarding ecosystems and communities. Second, a green transition presents a unique opportunity for economic development, offering the potential to generate jobs, attract investment, and foster innovation in renewable energy, the circular economy, and green infrastructure. Finally, aligning with the European Union’s environmental standards and policies is essential, as WB countries continue on their path toward EU integration—where green policies are central to the accession agenda.
However, the WB countries face a range of governance-related challenges that must be addressed to ensure an effective transition. These include weak institutional capacity, with many public bodies lacking the resources and expertise to implement green policies; fragmented policies that create inconsistencies and inefficiencies; and limited public participation in decision-making, which undermines community ownership and accountability.
In this context a new comparative report, developed by the GreenFORCE project Western Balkans partners and EU project partners, examines the institutional, policy, and participatory barriers that currently impede green transition efforts across the region. By comparing the governance landscape of the WB with that of EU member states, particularly Sweden and Italy, this report identifies key lessons and best practices that could inform more coherent and inclusive governance models in the WB.
It serves as a valuable tool for policymakers, researchers, and stakeholders committed to accelerating the green transition in the Western Balkans—one that is not only environmentally sound, but also equitable and well-governed.
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