Western Balkans Democracy and Prosperity Act

HR 9123, the Western Balkans Democracy and Prosperity Act, establishes a comprehensive U.S. framework to support democratic development, economic growth, and cybersecurity in the seven Western Balkans countries (Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, Kosovo, Montenegro, North Macedonia, and Serbia). The bill authorizes new anti-corruption initiatives, regional trade and economic development programs, and cybersecurity support to strengthen democratic institutions and reduce dependence on Russian energy. It requires annual reports on Russian and Chinese malign influence operations in the region and promotes cross-cultural educational exchanges through university partnerships and Peace Corps expansion. The legislation also emphasizes supporting Kosovo-Serbia normalization efforts while countering disinformation campaigns and strengthening cyber defenses. The bill is designed to promote U.S. strategic interests by fostering stability and democratic resilience in the Western Balkans.