During a summit in Montenegro involving leaders from six Western Balkan countries, European Union officials stressed the need for a more streamlined and reliable enlargement process, highlighting the importance of welcoming new members into the bloc. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz emphasized that the EU must prove its commitment and readiness to expand by incorporating the Western Balkans into its future. He pointed out that the EU hasn’t admitted a new member in over ten years, indicating a pressing need for reforms in the accession framework.
Echoing Merz’s sentiments, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen underscored the necessity of enhancing the efficiency and trustworthiness of the membership negotiations for countries aspiring to join the EU. The summit included leaders from Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo, Montenegro, North Macedonia, and Serbia, all of whom are on the path to EU membership. Among these nations, Montenegro is perceived as the most advanced candidate, with a target to join the EU by 2028.
French President Emmanuel Macron highlighted the strategic importance of EU enlargement for ensuring Europe’s security, achieving energy independence, and managing migration. He supported a phased approach to integration, which would allow candidate countries some participation in EU institutions and initiatives before they attain full membership. This concept of “gradual integration” aims to offer a more flexible pathway into the EU for aspiring members.
The momentum for EU expansion has been invigorated by the geopolitical shifts following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. In addition to the Western Balkan countries, Ukraine and Moldova are also actively pursuing EU membership. Brussels views the enlargement as a strategic move to bolster regional stability and mitigate external influences. However, despite the political push for expansion, the accession process remains lengthy and requires candidate countries to implement significant reforms, as well as secure unanimous approval from all 27 EU member states at each stage of the process.