Foreword The Western Balkans continues to navigate a landscape defined by po­litical transformation, shifting geopolitical influences, and profound social change. In such a context, understanding security requires more than insti­tutional capacity and strategic planning; it demands an appreciation of the cultural values, collective memories, and societal expectations that shape how communities perceive threats and envision their future. The concept of security culture therefore represents a crucial lens through which to exam­ine the region’s stability, democratic resilience, and long-term development. It was precisely this need for a deeper, more nuanced understanding of the nexus between culture and security that inspired the regional conference “Culture and Security – New or Old Nexus in Security: How to Understand and Develop the Concept of Security Culture”, held in Skopje on 7 March 2025. Co-organized and supported by the Friedrich Ebert Foundation – Sko­pje Office, the event gathered academics, practitioners, and policymakers from across the region. Their discussions highlighted the importance of cul­ture as a factor that shapes national security policy, institutional behaviour, and public trust— demonstrating that security is always embedded within broader societal and political frameworks. The quality of the debates and the diversity of perspectives shared at the conference laid the groundwork for this monograph. As publisher, we are proud to continue supporting this effort, recognizing both its intellectual value and its political relevance for the Western Balkans today. This volume contributes to an emerging field by outlining how cultural norms, beliefs, and values influence security thinking, particularly in the cases of Serbia and North Macedonia. It shows that security culture is neither static nor neutral— it evolves alongside social change, political discourse, and trans­formations in identity. This monograph also underscores the political importance of developing inclusive, transparent, and democratically grounded security cultures. At a time when the region faces both longstanding challenges and new forms 14 NATIONAL SECURITY CULTURES- A VIEW FROM THE BALKANS