This text aims to present and analyse defence reform processes in the European subregion of the Western Balkans. For this reason, it will also take a look at the countries concerned, namely Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, Macedonia and the State Union of Serbia and Montenegro. This will be done by recognizing trends in the defence reform process and, consequently, in generalising their characteristics. As a follow up, recommendations for the way ahead will be produced and laid down, having in mind first, the specifics of the subregion and its countries, and second, the substance of the text and the method of reaching conclusions. We can presume that this would provide us with a better understanding of the similarities and differences of the countries concerned, and enable us to draw useful general conclusions.

Therefore, this paper will focus on understanding the reform process and its variouselements (like adoption and implementation of strategic-doctrinal documents, right-sizing and modernisation of armed forces, etc), with a brief look at the changes of the South East European security environment.