Under the conditions of a taxing history and unstable relations, the Western Balkan region could easily become an instrument of major powers in the creating of a new global map of geopolitical power
Regardless of the EU’s unique perception of existing security threats and future challenges, European strategic autonomy and strengthened defensive capabilities of the EU are unlikely to be forthcoming under the conditions of an enduring political crisis that’s emerged as a consequence of the exclusive attitude towards enlargement, the re-examining of the development model following Brexit and ambitions to project a global impact. The EU’s hitherto comfortable foreign policy position, which maximally capitalised the liberal economic approach with minimal allocations for its maintenance, is no longer possible. It was clearly unsustainable over the long term, but it took advantage of the U.S. commitment to Europe’s security.
However, Russian Federation President Vladimir Putin has succeeded where many American presidents, from John Kennedy to Jo Biden, have failed. Most EU member states, in accordance with NATO recommendations, have already taken decisions to increase budget allocations for defence, while some have also changed their traditionally neutral status. In Germany’s case, this will mean that it will soon rank third among the countries with the highest military budgets worldwide, which will inevitably lead to changes in the architecture of European security. EU countries will consequently slow down their economic growth, but will more effectively realise their defined interests.
Now is the time when dependable alliances are formed, among other things, through the creating of a national security strategy based on regional predictability and trust
Under the conditions of a taxing history and unstable relations, the Western Balkan region could easily become an instrument of major powers in the creating of global map of geopolitical power. That’s precisely why Serbia would have to harmonise its state decisions with analyses and predictions regarding the development of international relations, as opposed to harmonising with the emotions of voters, who bring ratings but not a sustainable future. Now is the time when dependable alliances are formed, among other things, through the creating of a national security strategy based on regional predictability and trust. If we continue to insist on perceiving national security through the lens of unsustainable neutrality based on the concept of total defence, which isn’t recognised by any of the international factors, in a hypothetical war we wouldn’t be saved by either all the steel we procure for the army or by jumping up and down on Belgrade’s bridges.
Serbia only has a future through investments in youth education without party affiliations, patriotism without the hatred of others and foreign policy without being blind regarding international relations. What we least need at this sensitive juncture are pamphlets and slogans of bizarre speeches from the ‘90s, but it’s essential that we have a definition of state reasoning and a leader who transcends party ambitions. If we’re not in a position to do that and continue to revel loudly in the misfortunes of others, we certainly won’t experience our own happiness.
