From the Adriatic to the Caucasus: viable dynamics of stabilization

Following upon a previous research project on the dynamics of destabilization in the Adriatic-Caspian corridor (published in this series in 2001), this volume explores some viable conditions for its stabilization. An international team of prominent area experts reminds Western policy makers of the importance of stabilizing the countries bordering an enlarged European Union; the dangers of neglecting them in the wake of the anti-terrorist campaign that has followed the attacks against the USA on September 11th; and the relevance of key factors they identify for sustainable stabilization after a decade of instability and war.
 
Structured as a series of thematic chapters and seven case studies (Abkhazia, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Cyprus, Kosovo, Macedonia, Nagorno-Karabakh, and Serbia), the book emphasizes the crucial interdependence of local and external factors and suggests that democratization and selective incentives are not sufficient tools if they are not supported by a long-term strategy for effective state building, regional cooperation, and the genuine prospect of EU membership for the Balkans and at least a policy of reassurance and standardization for the North-East Black Sea area.
 
Such a framework significantly increases the prospect that controversial issues related to minorities, territories, balance of power, and a market economy - as well as the challenges of globalization to nation states - can and will gradually find solutions.