The European Union (EU) ministers released their conclusions on the enlargement process of various candidate countries just a day before leaders of the Western Balkans and the EU were set to meet in Brussels. The reports on Georgia and Turkey were particularly critical, highlighting democratic backsliding and limited progress towards European integration. In contrast, Ukraine and Moldova received positive assessments, with praise for their reform efforts and alignment with EU policies.
Georgia was chastised for its actions against democracy, the rule of law, and fundamental rights. The government’s suspension of EU membership talks and violent crackdown on protesters led to calls for EU sanctions, which were vetoed by Hungary and Slovakia. Turkey was commended for its cooperation with Greece and efforts to prevent circumvention of EU sanctions against Russia. However, concerns were raised about the country’s relationship with Cyprus, lack of judicial independence, restrictions on free expression, and low alignment with EU policies.
On the other hand, Ukraine was praised for its considerable reform progress in areas such as the rule of law, judicial reform, and anti-corruption efforts. The country’s alignment with EU foreign policy and sanctions was also highlighted positively. Moldova was commended for its commitment to the EU path, efforts to strengthen public administration, and fight against corruption. The country’s de-oligarchisation plan was also mentioned as a positive step towards European integration.
Albania, Montenegro, and North Macedonia also received favorable reviews in the EU enlargement conclusions. Albania and Montenegro both held accession conferences in Brussels this week, showing positive momentum towards EU membership. North Macedonia was commended for its cooperation on migration and border management, economic reforms, and alignment with EU foreign policy. However, concerns were raised about the recognition of the Bulgarian minority in Skopje and limited progress in certain areas.
Tensions in Bosnia & Herzegovina, Serbia, and Kosovo were highlighted as areas of concern, with ministers calling for de-escalation and resumption of talks. Economic reforms were praised in Kosovo and Bosnia & Herzegovina, but Serbia was criticized for lack of progress on freedom of expression, independence of the media, judiciary, and fight against organized crime. Ministers called on Serbia to accelerate reforms and align with EU foreign policy, urging the authorities to refrain from actions against EU positions.
Overall, the EU enlargement conclusions reflected a mixed picture of progress and challenges for candidate countries in their path towards European integration. While some countries received positive assessments for their reform efforts and alignment with EU policies, others were criticized for democratic backsliding, lack of judicial independence, and restrictions on free expression. The upcoming summit between Western Balkans leaders and the EU is expected to address these issues and further discuss the enlargement process.
