What the study found
The article argues that industrial policies and strategies for skill formation are key to improving productivity, competitiveness, and growth in the Western Balkans. It also describes two alternative growth models: FDI-led growth, which gives less attention to labour force skills, and skills-led growth, which gives less attention to attracting low-technology FDI.
Why the authors say this matters
The authors suggest that a more balanced, regionally cooperative approach could improve growth prospects by linking foreign direct investment (FDI, investment by companies based in other countries) with local innovation and appropriate labour force skills. They also conclude that this approach could reduce the scope for state capture, which they say thrives in small closed national markets.
What the researchers tested
This is a research article that discusses policy options for the Western Balkan region. The authors examine industrial and educational policy cooperation and consider how these policies might support FDI attraction, local small business networks, and workforce skill development.
What worked and what didn't
The article presents two growth models, each with trade-offs: FDI-led growth pays less attention to labour force skills, while skills-led growth pays less attention to attracting low-technology FDI. The authors favour a more balanced regional approach that combines both priorities.
What to keep in mind
The abstract does not provide empirical results, data, or a specific evaluation of policy outcomes. The available summary mainly presents the authors' argument and recommendations, rather than tested interventions.
Key points
- The article argues that industrial policy and skill formation are central to growth in the Western Balkans.
- It identifies two alternative growth models: FDI-led growth and skills-led growth.
- The authors recommend a balanced regional approach that combines FDI attraction with local innovation and workforce skills.
- They say regional cooperation could help integrate regional value chains into global markets.
- The authors also suggest this approach could reduce state capture in small closed national markets.
Disclosure
- Research title:
- Regional cooperation is presented as key to competitiveness in the Western Balkans
- Authors:
- Will Bartlett, Besni̇k A. Krasniqi
- Institutions:
- European University of Tirana, London School of Economics and Political Science, University of Prishtina
- Publication date:
- 2026-06-28
- OpenAlex record:
- View
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