On 13 April in Zagreb, IRMO participated in a panel discussion presenting the Converge2EU project, which analyses how the Western Balkans are converging with EU living standards.
The panel, moderated by Senada Šelo Šabić (IRMO), brought together:
• Dr Sabina Lange and Zoran Nechev (Think Europe Institute)
• Branimir Jovanović (The Vienna Institute for International Economic Studies)
• Vladimir Drobnjak, former Chief Negotiator for Croatia’s EU accession
The discussion highlighted a mixed picture of convergence. While digitalisation and some health
indicators show strong progress, significant gaps persist — particularly in education, environment and infrastructure.
Participants also stressed that managing expectations, strengthening communication with citizens, and advancing gradual integration will be key to maintaining momentum in the enlargement process.
The panel reaffirmed that improving living standards remains central to the credibility of EU enlargement.
Converge2EU Panel in Zagreb: Enlargement and Living Standards
