Die Corona-Krise auf dem Westbalkan
The Corona Crisis in the Western Balkans

A First Analysis of the Course, the Consequences and the Implications for Democracy

Summary/Abstract: The corona crisis led to extensive lockdowns and restrictions by states across Europe. The Western Balkans were not spared either. All countries in the region implemented harsh restrictions including measures such as a state of emergency which brought problematic limitations of fundamental rights and freedoms. Two months after the beginning of the crisis (end of May 2020) we argue that all the structural problems and dilemmas that were already visible in the Western Balkan states before the corona crisis have become even more pronounced. This is particularly true for the state of democracy which was fragile even before. Political leaders are taking advantage of the situation to recalibrate the political environment in their favour. The article presents an overview of the corona crisis impact on the region (incl. facts and figures), discusses challenges for societies and democracies in the Western Balkans and offers an analysis of possible effects on the further process of EU-Enlargement.

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