Bill · H.R. 5274· House(119-HR-5274)
Western Balkans Democracy and Prosperity Act
- Introduced
- 9/10/2025
- Last activity
- 9/10/2025 — Referred to the Committee on Foreign Affairs, and in addition to the Committee on the Judiciary, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.
- Sponsored by
- William Keating
- Cosponsors
- - 1 - 2
- Introduced
- In Committee
What this bill would do
The Western Balkans Democracy and Prosperity Act aims to increase trade and investment between the United States and the Western Balkans. It focuses on promoting democratic and economic development while countering corruption and disinformation. The bill includes provisions for anti-corruption initiatives, regional trade and development, and cyber resilience. It also emphasizes educational engagement, leadership development, and the expansion of the Peace Corps in the region. Additionally, the act seeks to reduce dependence on Russian energy and counter the influence of Russia and China.
Yes· 3 of 15
Would people in their twenties and thirties be better off under this?+7
The bill includes the Young Balkan Leaders Initiative to provide professional development and leadership training for young people.
Does this better protect the country from computer attacks?+7
The bill prioritizes supporting cybersecurity and cyber resilience to protect government and public services.
Would women be better off under this?+6
The bill explicitly supports enterprises owned by and employing women.
The opposite
No question was scored the opposite.
Who it would affect, and how
Potential Positive Impacts for People
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Economic Growth and Job Creation: The bill encourages investment in regional infrastructure, such as roads, bridges, and railways, and supports small and medium-sized enterprises to increase employment opportunities (Section 6, subsections (c)(2) and (c)(3)).
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Anti-Corruption Efforts: By expanding technical assistance and training for law enforcement and judicial institutions, the bill seeks to improve transparency and accountability in the region (Section 6, subsection (a)).
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Energy Security: The act promotes energy diversification and the transition to cleaner, more reliable energy sources to reduce dependence on Russian natural gas (Section 3, subsection (5)).
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Youth and Women Empowerment: There are specific provisions to support enterprises owned by women and youth, as well as leadership training for young professionals (Section 3, subsection (3); Section 6, subsection (b)(2); and Section 9).
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Educational and Cultural Exchange: The bill promotes partnerships between United States and Western Balkans universities, providing opportunities for academic exchange and skill development (Section 7).
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Cybersecurity Protection: Supporting cyber resilience and secure information technology infrastructure helps protect the functioning of government and public services (Section 10).
Potential Negative Impacts for People
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Sanctions Burdens: The bill codifies various sanctions relating to the Western Balkans, which involves blocking property and potentially impacting specific individuals (Section 5, subsections (a) and (b)).
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Political Tension: The focus on countering Russian and Chinese influence, as well as addressing the democratic state of Serbia, involves monitoring and reporting on malign influence and political instability (Section 12; Section 2, subsection (20)).
Groups and Interests Ranking
Every group the model scored this bill for, from -10 to +10. Hover a score for the reason it gave.
- Demographic And Interest Groups
- Good For Young Adults+7Good For Women+6Good For Business Owners+5Good For Students+5
- National Security And Foreign Policy
- Improves Cybersecurity Defense+7Improves International Alliances+5
- Economy And Finance
- Improves Small Business Support+6Increases Job Creation+5
- Environment Energy And Infrastructure
- Improves Roads And Bridges+5Increases Renewable Energy Investment+5
- Social Issues And Justice
- Improves Poverty Reduction+4Improves Voting Rights+4
- Education And Technology
- Improves Internet Access+4Improves College Affordability+3
- Governance And Ideology
- Improves Government Transparency+6
- 10/17/2025
- 1 Cosponsor added.
- 9/10/2025
- Referred to the Committee on Foreign Affairs, and in addition to the Committee on the Judiciary, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.
- 2 Cosponsors added.
- Introduced in House
One bill Congress.gov lists as related to this one — companions in the other chamber, earlier versions, and bills this one absorbed or was folded into.
Brian FitzpatrickRepublican · Pennsylvania
Daniel GoldmanDemocrat · New York
Nicole MalliotakisRepublican · New York