This paper explores Ursula von der Leyen’s ambitions for the EU as a global actor by focusing exclusively on the Western Balkan region, starting out with a comparison to the approach of the previous European Commission. It then moves on to look at challenges in the EC’s pledge to become a geopolitical player, by looking at how relations between the EU and the WB could develop in the future. That is especially critical, considering that the region is regarded as a geopolitical chessboard when it comes to other external actors. This is why, as will be explored further down, the Western Balkans are not only an area for the EU to exercise the role as global player, but also a region crucial to the international recognition of the EU’s integrity, strength and appetite for strategic autonomy.
