The EU’s enlargement process, which has been touted as its most effective foreign policy, has slowed significantly since the last wave of new members joined in 2004. In a debate moderated by Euronews in Davos, key figures discussed how the EU can revitalize its enlargement process. Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has heightened the urgency of EU accession talks, but progress has been slow. Some candidates have been waiting to join the EU for over a decade, highlighting the challenges in the process. EU Commissioner for enlargement Marta Kos acknowledges that the economic and geopolitical landscape has changed significantly since the last major enlargement in 2004.

Kos emphasizes the importance of the rule of law in the accession process, noting that some current EU member states are not fully compliant. This has led to concerns that admitting unprepared countries could harm the European Union. Croatian Prime Minister Andrej Plenković, while acknowledging the lengthy process his country went through to join in 2013, believes it was worth it. He highlights the positive impacts on Croatia’s economy, infrastructure, and values as a result of EU membership. Montenegro, considered the furthest along in the accession process among nine candidate countries, aims to conclude negotiations by 2026 and become the 28th member state by 2028.

Montenegro’s Prime Minister Milojko Spajić rejects the idea that the EU accession process is a competition, expressing eagerness for faster progress. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha believes that Ukraine’s membership will strengthen the EU, citing its experience on the battlefield and advancements in technology and defense industries. He estimates that the cost of enlarging the EU by nine countries would be approximately 0.17% of the EU’s GDP. Expectations are high for Montenegro and Ukraine to make significant progress by 2025, with Poland and Denmark potentially leading the way during upcoming EU Council presidencies.

Croatian Prime Minister Plenković notes a positive attitude towards enlargement among heads of state and government, signaling a potential shift in momentum for the process. The debate in Davos highlighted the challenges and opportunities facing the EU’s enlargement process, particularly in light of recent geopolitical events. Despite the obstacles and delays, there is optimism among candidate countries and EU officials for progress in the coming years. The potential benefits of enlargement, both for candidate countries and the EU as a whole, continue to drive efforts to revitalize and expand the bloc. As discussions continue, the EU faces critical decisions about the future of its enlargement policy and the role of new member states in shaping the union.

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