10 statements
 
Paul Stubbs, 23.04.2009.
1. The crisis may represent a paradox in terms of the end of neo-liberal globalization AND the beginning of neo-liberal restructuring in the Western Balkans.

By Helenic Foundation for European and Foregin Policy - an interesting analysis form Dr. Jens Bastian - "Falling Behind Again? - Southeast Europe and the Global Crisis"
Introduction:
As the global crisis deepens, the economic outlook for the region of southeast Europe darkens. The crisis resistance of countries in the region has not been tested before on such a scale. Furthermore, their institutional arrangements remain distinctly fragile. Confronting the crises will require bold and coordinated policy initiatives, sustained international support and the recognition of its social implications.

Paul Stubbs
4 Questions on the Crisis
 
1. How is it possible that the crisis has been defined as a financial or, at best, an economic crisis when it clearly has social dimensions to it?

The so-called financial crisis follows on from related fuel and food crises. Cumulatively, they have affected, and continue to affect, real people and, therefore, can be said to have social impacts. In addition, levels of trust in key social institutions are a crucial factor in terms of how the crisis unfolds in different places at different times. Perhaps even more importantly, however, the nature of the crisis blurs any simple division between the 'economic', 'political' and 'social' spheres. Resolution of the crisis may well need a redefinition of fundamental values, a kind of new social contract, at all levels including individual nation states.