At a pivotal summit in Montenegro, European Union leaders have urged for a more expedited and credible enlargement process, emphasizing the need for the bloc to demonstrate both readiness and ability to incorporate new members. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz articulated the necessity for the EU to prove its capacity for expansion and its dedication to integrating the Western Balkan region into its future, pointing out that it has been over a decade since a new country joined the EU. Merz highlighted the pressing need for reforms in the accession process to facilitate this integration.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen supported these sentiments, underscoring the significance of enhancing the effectiveness and trustworthiness of membership negotiations for aspiring countries. The summit in Montenegro convened leaders from the EU and six Western Balkan countries, including Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo, Montenegro, North Macedonia, and Serbia, all of which are striving for EU membership. Among these, Montenegro is perceived as the frontrunner in the accession race, with aspirations to join the EU by 2028.
French President Emmanuel Macron highlighted the strategic importance of EU enlargement, linking it to Europe’s security, energy independence, and migration management. He advocated for a “gradual integration” approach, which would enable candidate countries to participate in specific EU institutions and initiatives even before attaining full membership. This notion aligns with the broader momentum for expansion that has intensified following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
In addition to the Western Balkans, countries like Ukraine and Moldova are also on the path to seeking EU membership. The European Union views enlargement as a strategic move to bolster stability and diminish external influences within the region. However, despite the increasing political backing, the road to EU accession remains complex and protracted, demanding comprehensive reforms from candidate countries and unanimous consent from all 27 member states at every stage of the process.