Influence and Engagement of the United Arab Emirates in the Western Balkans

Author: Tena Prelec

This paper examines the UAE’s relations with the three countries of the Western Balkans where they have engaged predominantly since 2010: Montenegro, Serbia, and Bosnia-Herzegovina. Notable milestones in the countries’ engagement are discussed, examining the relationships with local actors and impact on the population. In the second section, the paper outlines the activity of the UAE across political, economic, social and security domains, before drawing out relevant emerging trends in the conclusion.

The Global Transitions Series looks at fragmentations in the global order and how these impact peace and transition settlements. It explores why and how different third-party actors – state, intergovernmental, and non-governmental – intervene in conflicts, and how they see themselves contributing to reduction of conflict and risks of conflict relapse. The series critically assesses the growth and diversification of global and regional responses to contemporary conflicts. It also asks how local actors are navigating this multiplicity of mediators and peacebuilders and how this is shaping conflict outcomes and post-conflict governance.