Southeast Europe / Features
Rule of law in EU deteriorates, with decline concentrated in eastern members
Liberties report finds collapse of democratic standards in Hungary, and strong deteriorations in Bulgaria, Croatia, Italy, Romania and Slovakia.
Russia's leading discount store Fix Price to move into Serbia
Russian discount retailer Fix Price is preparing to enter the Serbian market, with plans to open several stores by the end of 2025. This marks the company's second attempt to establish a presence in Europe.
Turkey in undeclared state of emergency following detention of Erdogan rival Imamoglu
Lira drops 14% as markets take fright. Barring an exceptional pushback from opposition, however, on past performance, country will soon go back to “normal”.
Southeast Europe erupts in weekend of protests
Protests in Serbia, Georgia and Hungary reflect mounting discontent over corruption and democratic backsliding, while Romanians turn out to show commitment to EU values in face of rising far right.
Turkmenistan is trying to come out of its shell
Economic necessity is the mother of diversification.
EU countries weigh costs of planned military buildup
What we know so far about EU member states’ plans to hike defence spending in face of "existential challenge" from Russia, and how this will be financed.
Can Emerging European countries afford to rearm?
As European countries face a pressing need to rearm amid fears the US may pull back from its security commitments, an EBRD report shows higher defence spending is already putting pressure on public finances.
Lebanon's rail revival paves the way for economic growth and unity
Lebanon is seeking to revive its dormant railway network, aiming to reconnect with neighbouring Syria and Iraq while positioning itself as a potential link in China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).
EBRD lowers 2025 forecasts citing subdued global growth and trade fragmentation
Weaker external demand and potential impact of Trump tariffs weigh on Emerging Europe, Central Asia and Semed regions, with growth now projected at 3.2%.
‘Perp walk’ pictures of businessmen who attacked Erdogan draw mocking response from opposition
Finance minister advised to hold up photo and say, “This is how favourable the investment environment in Turkey is.”
Romania's retail market expands despite economic slowdown, says Colliers
Growth reflects improved purchasing power, with Romania outpacing major economies in the region – and even some Western European countries – in per capita spending on clothing and footwear, says new Colliers report.
Turkey, Germany strike arms deal to ramp up production of 155mm artillery shells
Move comes as US downgrades its role in Nato defence of Europe and concern grows over how Russia is racing ahead in weapons manufacturing.
Russian holiday-makers return to Europe as demand for trips abroad surges
Russian tourists are increasingly booking trips to Europe, with a sharp rise in hotel reservations for Spain, France and Italy, according to leading online travel aggregators.
Europe's economic woes made worse by looming trade war with US, says Goldman Sachs
Cyclical industries across Europe are in danger from the economic slowdown sweeping Europe, Goldman Sachs warned in a note on February 4. They were already reeling from years of a polycrisis, but now President Trump is threatening a trade war.
Turkey’s earthquake disaster two years on – families still searching for lost children, 650,000 living in container cities
For so many survivors, it is proving impossible to move on and find closure.
North Macedonia faces economic strain as European carmakers restructure
The European automotive sector has been grappling with declining sales and growing competition from China, leading to significant restructuring efforts.
“Unchained” Trump is main risk to broadly positive Emerging Europe growth prospects
Steep US tariffs on the EU or a sudden cut in support for Ukraine are the major downside risks for the region, says new wiiw report.
Lack of megadeals drags down M&A volume in Emerging Europe
The number of deals in Central and Southeast Europe rose in 2024 but aggregate deal value fell by 31%, finds law firm CMS.
OUTLOOK Southeastern Europe 2025
What is in store for Southeastern Europe in 2025? bne IntelliNews’ annual OUTLOOK: Southeastern Europe 2025
Emerging Europe split between eager anticipation and wary acceptance ahead of Trump inauguration
For some leaders in Central and Southeast Europe, the new Trump presidency is seen as a opportunity; for others it’s a challenge to navigate carefully.