Assessing Economic and Social Progress in Southeast European Countries (The Balkans Region)

Abstract

The study investigates the economic and social development of Southeast European countries—specifically the Balkan States-over the past decade, focusing on 10 Balkan countries and Slovenia (as a comparator). It relies on standardized macroeconomic and social indicators sourced from major international organizations to ensure methodological consistency. The goal is to analyze trends and disparities, especially in light of the region’s political transitions and EU integration processes. Forty development indicators were used to assess each country's progress and developmental position in a comparative framework. The study also explores the limitations of traditional indicators and argues for the inclusion of broader, less conventional measures of development