Analysis
Society
Shrinking Spaces: Are NGOs Being Pushed Out of Public Life?
18 December 2024
9 February 2023
The Western Balkans has cleaved itself essentially into three factions when it comes to technology, those adhering to security concerns from the West and banning Chinese infrastructure, those embracing Beijing’s Digital Silk Road and a murky middle group. To achieve the region’s stated goals of EU accession, they will have to be more lockstep in their approach.
For a long period, China has been present in the Western Balkans, which is not surprising because strategic interests were always there! Today, China continues its presence and has increased its digital footprint by initiating the Digital Silk Road and expanding further into the region.
The Digital Silk Road refers to a project initiated by Beijing to improve digital connectivity by making China the main actor in the process.
As a project, it focuses on expanding China’s digital footprint and strategic influence by establishing communication networks, satellite information and cross-border cables.