Western Balkans’ Growth Subdued, Unlocking Job Potential Key to Long-Term Prospects © 2026 World Bank Group, This page in:English Српски Shqip Македонски Bosanski

https://www.worldbank.org/en/news/press-release/2026/04/29/western-balkans-growth-subdued-unlocking-job-potential-key-to-long-term-prospects?cid=ECR_E_NewsletterWeekly_EN_EXT&deliveryName=DM280554 VIENNA, April 29, 2026—Economic growth in the Western Balkans is expected to remain subdued in 2026 and 2027, weighed down by the ripple effects of the conflict in the Middle East, persistent inflation, and heightened uncertainty. To sustain reform momentum in a region facing growing labor shortages, expanding workforce participation will be essential, according to a new World Bank Group report released today. © 2026 World Bank Group,