EU and Western Balkans advance Digital Transformation through the 3rd Regulatory Dialogue

The 3rd Regulatory Dialogue between the EU and the Western Balkans focused on strengthening the region's alignment with the EU's ambitious digital transformation agenda.

As the digital landscape continues to evolve, the Western Balkans have demonstrated significant progress towards integrating digital priorities into their Reform Agendas (2024-2027), marking a key step in their path to EU accession. Notably, the EU's Growth Plan for the Western Balkans (2024-2027) has placed digital transformation as a central priority for regional integration.

All six Western Balkans economies are now associated to the Digital Europe Programme. By 2025, each country will host European Digital Innovation Hubs (EDIHs) to drive the region's twin green and digital transition.

The dialogue covered a range of topics, including:

• Digital Services Act and Digital Markets Act: The EU's DSA and DMA were highlighted for creating safer digital environments and ensuring fair competition. The Western Balkans are actively working to align with these frameworks, with support from the EU through TAIEX projects.
• Artificial Intelligence: The EU AI Act sets global standards for ethical AI development. The Western Balkans are encouraged to align their policies with this framework to foster safe and innovative AI ecosystems.
• Cybersecurity: Strengthening cybersecurity remains a top priority. The Western Balkans are aligning with the NIS2 Directive and the EU 5G Cybersecurity Toolbox to enhance resilience against cyber threats. The new Cyber Resilience Act and Cyber Solidarity Act will further bolster these efforts.
• Digital Identity: The Western Balkans' commitment to creating a "Balkan Digital Identity Wallet" is a significant step toward interoperability and innovation. The region is actively participating in large-scale pilot projects under the EU Digital Identity Framework.
• Gigabit Infrastructure Act (GIA): The GIA, which entered into force in May 2024, offers the Western Balkans an opportunity to modernise their network infrastructure. Aligning with this act will facilitate the deployment of high-capacity networks like 5G.

Looking Ahead: The Dialogue set out the work for the year ahead, for the Western Balkans to continue their alignment with EU digital legislation.

As the Western Balkans continue their journey toward EU accession, the EU remains committed to supporting the region's digital transformation, fostering deeper integration, and creating a secure, innovative digital landscape for all.

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