Western Balkans Democracy and Prosperity Act

HR 5274, the Western Balkans Democracy and Prosperity Act, aims to strengthen democratic institutions and economic development in the seven Western Balkans countries (Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, Kosovo, Montenegro, North Macedonia, and Serbia). The bill authorizes a 5-year strategy for economic development and democratic resilience, including anti-corruption initiatives, cybersecurity support, and regional trade programs. It codifies existing sanctions related to the Western Balkans with an 8-year sunset provision and requires annual reports on Russian and Chinese malign influence operations. The legislation expands educational exchanges through the Peace Corps and establishes a Young Balkan Leaders Initiative to support youth and women entrepreneurs. It seeks to reduce dependence on Russian energy, promote U.S. trade and investment, and support the region's European integration efforts.