Muslim Patrons? The Influence of the United Arab Emirates, Iran, Saudi Arabia and Turkey in the Western Balkans

Abstract

The study examines the presence and influence of the United Arab Emirates, Iran, Saudi Arabia and Turkey in the Western Balkans. It applies a Western perspective and primarily aims to answer the question that in what sense and to what extent the interests and activities of these states conflict with and oppose to the European and American ones. It highlights that the four states do not intend to undermine the EU’s influence or to destabilise the region. This does not mean, however, that there are no challenges and processes that will require increased attention.