Innovation and investments as a cornerstone of economic performance toward European integration processes

Abstract

Kosovo is developing country with a high rate of unemployment, the lowest income 
per capita in the region and a lot of socio-economic problems affecting negatively 
European integration process. Disregarding of the legal concerns encountered in 
the relation between EU and Kosovo government is more responsible for lagging 
behind in the process of EU integration. The Kosovo government has not 
approached the process of integration with due diligence and seriousness, whilst 
blaming EU for applying double standards for integration purposes. Thus, paper 
aims to provide an overview of economic performance of countries in the region, 
with special reflection on Kosovo’s efforts toward European integration processes. 
Official statistical data are used for analyses of different features that helped 
identifying the most important reasons that causing Kosovo to lag behind in 
achieving its European aspirations. Moreover, comprehensive political analysis of 
various factors with significant impact on economic stability is conducted to be able 
to propose the concrete structural reforms that would secure a higher growth and 
progress.