At a summit in Montenegro, European Union leaders have intensified calls for a swifter and more reliable process of enlargement, emphasizing the need for the bloc to prove its readiness and ability to integrate new members. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz highlighted the importance of this expansion, pointing out that over a decade has passed since a new country joined the EU. He underscored the necessity for reforming the accession process to better accommodate the aspirations of candidates from the Western Balkans.
Joining Merz in this advocacy, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen underscored the crucial role of enhancing the effectiveness and reliability of membership negotiations for prospective countries. The summit served as a platform for EU leaders to engage with representatives from Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo, Montenegro, North Macedonia, and Serbia, all of whom are eager to join the EU. Among these nations, Montenegro is considered the most advanced in its candidacy, with an aim to gain membership by 2028.
French President Emmanuel Macron added weight to the discussion by stressing that the enlargement of the EU carries strategic significance, particularly in terms of Europe’s security, energy self-sufficiency, and migration management. He expressed support for the idea of “gradual integration,” which would enable aspiring members to engage with certain EU institutions and projects prior to attaining full membership status. This progressive approach is seen as a means to bridge the gap for candidate countries.
The drive to expand the EU has gained traction in the context of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, which has heightened the urgency to stabilize the region and diminish external influences. In addition to the Western Balkans, Ukraine and Moldova are also seeking EU membership, with Brussels viewing their inclusion as essential for bolstering regional stability. Despite the growing political endorsement for expansion, the path to EU accession remains complex, involving significant reforms by candidate countries and requiring unanimous consent from all 27 member states at each phase.