# Summary
The Western Balkans Democracy and Prosperity Act aims to boost trade, investment, and democratic governance in seven countries: Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, Kosovo, Montenegro, North Macedonia, and Serbia. The bill directs the State Department and U.S. Agency for International Development to develop a comprehensive five-year economic development strategy for the region, establish anti-corruption initiatives, support university partnerships, and expand cybersecurity assistance. It also codifies existing sanctions against individuals undermining stability in the Western Balkans and establishes a Young Balkan Leaders Initiative to support youth development through fellowships, professional training, and cultural exchange programs.
The legislation emphasizes countering Russian and Chinese influence in the region while supporting these countries' paths toward European Union and NATO membership where desired. It requires biennial reports to Congress on foreign malign influence operations and creates initiatives to reduce energy dependence on Russia, improve regional infrastructure, and strengthen democratic institutions. The bill authorizes various programs including Peace Corps expansion, trade development initiatives, and cybersecurity capacity-building, though most require additional appropriations and coordination among multiple federal agencies.