European Union leaders are advocating for a more rapid and credible approach to expanding the bloc, emphasizing the need to both demonstrate the capability and commitment to integrate new members. This call was made during a summit in Montenegro, which included leaders from six Western Balkan countries. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz highlighted the urgency of reforming the accession process, pointing out that it has been over a decade since a new country joined the EU. He stressed the importance of showing that the bloc is ready to embrace the region as part of its future.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen supported the initiative, underlining the necessity of making membership negotiations more efficient and reliable for aspiring member states. The gathering in Montenegro featured representatives from Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo, Montenegro, North Macedonia, and Serbia, all seeking EU membership. Among these nations, Montenegro stands as the leading candidate, aiming to join the EU by 2028.
French President Emmanuel Macron added that expanding the EU holds strategic significance for enhancing Europe’s security, energy independence, and migration management. He endorsed the notion of “gradual integration,” which would allow candidate countries to engage in specific EU institutions and initiatives prior to achieving full membership status. His comments reflect a growing acknowledgment of the strategic benefits enlargement could bring to the continent.
The momentum behind the push for EU expansion has been amplified in the wake of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. In addition to the Western Balkan nations, Ukraine and Moldova are also striving for EU membership, with Brussels viewing enlargement as a means to bolster regional stability and diminish external influences. Despite the increasing political support for this initiative, the EU accession process remains intricate, necessitating extensive reforms from candidate countries and unanimous consent from all 27 member states at each phase.