I think that Canada can really offer an alternative, a fresh perspective on democracy that is in line with what the EU presents, but is slightly different. I think it would be extremely welcome in the Balkans to hear from others, not always from Berlin, Paris, The Hague or Madrid. That is very important.
It would be important to find a niche. For instance, one niche would be the legislature. A hearing like this is exemplary for countries in the Balkans. Parliaments have no experience in holding such hearings. Issues such as budget oversight, research capacity in Parliament and postlegislative scrutiny are all topics that Canada has a lot of experience with in Parliament, and it would be very beneficial in the field of security to transfer this to southeast European countries.
