THE CONTROVERSY AROUND THE CURRENT SERBIAN BORDERS: A REAL CHALLENGE IN THE COUNTRY'S WAY TO EUROPEAN UNION MEMBERSHIP

Abstract

The article “The controversy around the current Serbian borders: a real challenge in the country's way to European Union membership” provides an overview of border and territorial disputes between the Republic of Serbia and its neighbours in the Western Balkans. These problems have not been solved more than a quarter of a century. In the new EU strategy from February 2018 'A credible enlargement perspective for and enhanced EU engagement with the Western Balkans', it is said that Serbia and Montenegro can become members of the EU in 2025. This is possible in case that countries meet the conditions for membership and overcome their border disputes with their neighbours. A special place is given to the reasons for many unsettled border issues between post Yugoslav states. The focus is on the complex relations between Serbia and Kosovo, which should sit at the negotiating table and resolve the many controversial issues between them. One of the most important is the regulation of borders and the recognition of Kosovo's independence from Serbia. The idea of "correction" of the border between the two countries was commented, as well as the modern hostile relations between the countries. It is concluded that now an agreement between Serbia and the former Serbian province seems less likely than ever and explains why. The article sheds light on the complex border problems between Serbia and Croatia about the border of the Danube River, as well as the outstanding border issues between Serbia and Bosnia and Herzegovina. The conclusions are that Serbia will not be able to fulfill all the conditions for EU membership and the process of European integration of the country will be delayed.