Regional and institutional perspectives on security in the Balkans : the case of Albania

Abstract

The end of the Cold War was followed by a tense and conflictual environment in the Balkans. The present study provides a contribution to the understanding of the Balkan security from a regional and institutional perspective illustrated by the case of Albania. The approach is based on a wider understanding of the concept of security. Through a theoretical exercise related to security issues it makes clear the necessity of involving other spheres beyond the military and political ones, such as economic and social ones in dealing with the security concept. Considering indispensable the role of institutions in dealing with the complex and interdependent security issues, an accurate place is given to the role and involvement of Euro-Atlantic institutions in the Balkans, without ignoring the regional initiatives and institutions as important assets with a role to play. Albania is perceived as an integral part of the Balkans both as derivative and participant, with a role to play but meanwhile affected by regional legacies and developments.