The project Balkan Association of Applied Economists – Conference and Development Activities aims to strengthen applied economics research on EU integration, regional cooperation and sustainable economic development in the Western Balkans.
The project responds to the fragmentation of the applied economics research community in the region. Although substantial expertise exists across the Western Balkans, it remains dispersed across countries, institutions and individual researchers, limiting its impact on public policy and wider public debate. Through the development of the Balkan Association of Applied Economists (BAAE), the project supports the creation of a structured regional research network connecting academia, research institutions, early-career researchers and policymakers.
The central project activity will be the annual BAAE conference, “Applied Economics for Inclusive Growth in the Western Balkans”, to be held in Belgrade, at the Faculty of Economics and Business, University of Belgrade, on 19–20 June 2026. The conference will focus on economic development, competitiveness, the Common Regional Market, green transition, labour markets, education and skills in the context of EU integration and the New Growth Plan for the Western Balkans.
The project is implemented with the support of Open Society Foundations – Western Balkans.