The broader region of south-east Europe lies adjacent to areas of critical international developments. In fields such as defence and security, energy, transport and connectivity, among others, the region plays a pivotal role in the European Union’s efforts to promote its strategic autonomy. This, in turn, brings in the spotlight the prospect of EU accession for the countries of the Western Balkans. Within this context, Croatia serves as a positive example for the region. The country’s favorable geographic position, its extensive coastline, its highly skilled workforce, and its institutional stability can serve as key drivers not only for enhancing prosperity and resilience in times of global shifts and challenges, but also for deepening co-operation and partnerships with other countries in the region.

Against this backdrop, the Economist Enterprise’s Third Annual Economist Croatia Summit, entitled “Sustaining reforms amid strategic shifts and challenges”, which is going to take place on December 7th 2026 in Zagreb, will bring together high-ranking officials and prominent personalities from politics, business, academia, civil society, and the European and international institutions, contributing to the debate on how Croatia, the region and Europe can navigate in uncertain and transformative times.