The Western Balkans region, known for conflicts and slow progress, saw a shift in the 2000s when the EU included them in its enlargement plans. The EU aimed to support the region's European integration through tailored policies. This approach was successful in promoting peace, democracy, and market economies in previous candidate countries in Central and Eastern Europe. The EU's new strategy in the Western Balkans is expected to lead to similar positive reforms and institution-building in the region.