The International Institute for Peace (IIP), in cooperation with the Karl-Renner-Institut, and the Austrian Institute for International Affairs (oiip), warmly invites you to attend our upcoming public event,
Waiting for Europe: EU Enlargement in an Era of Uncertainty
Date: Tuesday, 16th June, 2026
Time: 18:00
Venue: IIP, Möllwaldplatz 5/7, 1040 Vienna
WELCOME
• GERHARD MARCHL, Head of the European Politics Department, Karl-Renner-Institut
• GJERGJ LOKA, Project Coordinator, International Institute for Peace (IIP)
PANELISTS
• ULRIKE HARTMANN, Head of the Department South Eastern Europe and EU Enlargement; Special Envoy for the Western Balkans, Austrian Ministry for European and International Affairs (BMEIA)
• HANNES SWOBODA, President, International Institute for Peace (IIP)
• ANNA PATTERMANN, Executive Director, Unlimited Democracy (tbc)
• DONIKA EMINI, Research Scholar, Balkans in Europe Policy Advisory Group, Prishtina
MODERATOR
• VEDRAN DŽIHIĆ, Senior Researcher, Austrian Institute for International Affairs (oiip)
CONTENT
For decades, the "European Perspective" was a distant promise for the Western Balkans. Today, the geopolitical landscape has shifted. Russia’s war in Ukraine has turned EU enlargement from a bureaucratic process into a security imperative. Yet, as the "waiting room" grows more crowded, so does the frustration.
This public panel discussion brings together experts that will move beyond the technical "chapters" of accession. Can the EU reform itself internally while simultaneously expanding? How can the EU regain credibility in the Western Balkans while meeting the urgent needs of its neighborhood? What does joining the Union mean for the democratic aspirations of the region?
The discussion builds on our “Young Generation for the New Western Balkans” initiative, which seeks to elevate youth perspectives within policy debates on EU enlargement. Through workshops and regional exchanges, the initiative connects young leaders to develop a shared vision centered on reconciliation, inclusion, and a credible European future.
THE EVENT WILL BE HELD IN ENGLISH.
Snacks and drinks will be offered after the event!
Please note that the building’s elevator is out of service. Access to the event space is via the stairs.
By participating in this event, you agree that any photos or recordings taken that include footage of your person may be published or used in any other way by the organizers of the event.