H.R. 5274: Western Balkans Democracy and Prosperity Act
The Western Balkans Democracy and Prosperity Act is legislation aimed at fostering economic growth and democratic development in the Western Balkan countries, including Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, Kosovo, Montenegro, North Macedonia, and Serbia. The bill focuses on increasing U.S. trade and investment in the region, encouraging partnerships that could lead to stronger economies and improved governance.
Key Provisions
- Trade and Investment Promotion: The bill seeks to enhance U.S. economic engagement in the Western Balkans, helping to create more opportunities for trade and investment.
- Strengthening Democracy: It emphasizes the importance of democratic development and the rule of law in these countries, aiming to bolster institutions that support democratic governance.
- Addressing Corruption: The legislation includes measures to tackle corruption, contributing to more transparent governance in the region.
- Cyber Resilience: It addresses the need for improved cyber resilience, ensuring that countries in the region can better protect their infrastructure from cyber threats.
- Regional Integration: By promoting initiatives that foster regional integration, the bill aims to enhance cooperation among these nations, potentially leading to a more stable and cohesive Balkan region.
Young Balkans Leaders Initiative
One of the initiatives included in the bill is the establishment of annual gatherings for the Young Balkans Leaders Initiative. This program is designed to create networking opportunities among young leaders from the Western Balkans, fostering collaboration and knowledge sharing among the next generation of leaders.
Congressional Briefing
Additionally, within 180 days of the bill's enactment, the Secretary of State is required to provide a briefing to Congress. This briefing will focus on current exchange programs in the Western Balkans, analyzing the existing barriers, available resources, and strategies to connect participants more effectively.
Overall Goals
Overall, the Western Balkans Democracy and Prosperity Act aims to create a framework for sustainable development in the region, promoting a stable environment conducive to economic and democratic progress.
Relevant Companies
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Sponsors
3 bill sponsors
Actions
2 actions
| Date | Action |
|---|---|
| Sep. 10, 2025 | Introduced in House |
| Sep. 10, 2025 | Referred to the Committee on Foreign Affairs, and in addition to the Committee on the Judiciary, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned. |
Corporate Lobbying
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Potentially Relevant Congressional Stock Trades
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