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Our Story
The Agency for Strategic, Political, and Economic Research and Analysis – Spire is a private analytical agency specializing in the Western Balkans.
We offer unique, highly specialized analytical services tailored to the needs of our clients – international consulting firms and organizations, NGOs, governments, their embassies, and others.
Regional Expertise
The agency was founded in September 2023 by Srećko Latal, a veteran journalist, editor, researcher, and analyst with over 30 years of professional experience in the region.
Throughout his career, Latal has worked with some of the leading international and regional media and analytical organizations. More details are available in his CV. Over the years, he has established a vast network of regional contacts and collaborators, including top professionals—researchers, analysts, journalists, and experts across various fields such as politics, security, economy, energy, and more.
The insights and analyses provided by these contacts and collaborators enable Spire to design, develop, organize, coordinate, and/or implement a wide range of analytical and/or research projects in one or more Balkan countries.
Spire can offer expertise and/or conduct research and analytical projects in Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, Kosovo, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Serbia, Slovenia, and Turkey. We have in-depth knowledge and understanding of the relationships between these countries, as well as the key external actors present in the region, such as China, Russia, the United States, and the European Union.
Srećko Latal
Srećko Latal is a journalist, analyst, and researcher with over 30 years of experience covering political, economic, and security developments in the Western Balkans. He has worked with leading institutions such as the World Bank, Oxford Analytica, EIU, International Crisis Group, and BIRN, providing investigative reporting, policy analysis, and consultancy.
As the founder and director of Spire, he leads a team of experts delivering strategic insights and research for international clients. In recognition of his contributions, he was awarded the Knight of the Order of the Star of Italian Solidarity in 2018 by Italian President Sergio Mattarella.
Latal continues to provide high-level analysis and advisory services, helping clients navigate the complexities of the Balkans.
Previous Engagements and Expertise
Before founding Spire, Srećko collaborated with leading global organizations, providing expert analysis, consulting services, and research in the field of political, economic, and security issues in the Western Balkans. His key engagements included projects for international consulting firms, think-tank organizations, and government institutions.
