The European Union is gearing up to accelerate its enlargement process, with a renewed focus on welcoming new member states. This shift comes after a decade of slow progress,with only five negotiating chapters closed for each aspiring nation.
EU officials are recognizing the need for a more dynamic approach to enlargement, particularly considering the evolving geopolitical landscape. While the “merit-based” system,which emphasizes democratic values and the rule of law,will remain a cornerstone,there’s a growing consensus that the current pace is unsustainable.
“the process is merit-based, and democracy and rule of law will remain its backbone. But if candidates deliver, I want to match their efforts,” stated Enlargement commissioner Marta Kos earlier this week. She emphasized her commitment to “advance the process as quickly and efficiently as possible.”
the Western Balkans region is seen as a prime candidate for this accelerated approach. Montenegro and Albania, in particular, are considered frontrunners, with a realistic chance of joining the EU in the coming years.
EU officials are aiming to hold up to three Intergovernmental Conferences (IGC) by the end of the year, including one with montenegro, which could see several negotiation chapters closed.Ukraine and Moldova are also expected to make progress next year, with the potential opening of the “fundamentals” cluster in the first half of 2025.
However, other candidate countries face more significant hurdles. Talks with North Macedonia are stalled due to constitutional amendments,while Bosnia and herzegovina’s progress is contingent on implementing key reforms. Serbia’s path is complex by concerns over its alignment with EU foreign policy and the rule of law. Despite Hungary’s efforts to advance serbia’s accession talks during its presidency, progress remains uncertain.
Meanwhile,Georgia appears to be moving in the opposite direction,raising concerns within the EU. “The speed at which enlargement moves forward and for whom will come down to the willingness of EU capitals,” noted Enlargement Commissioner Kos.
The EU’s renewed focus on enlargement signals a recognition of the strategic importance of expanding the bloc’s membership. As the geopolitical landscape continues to evolve, the EU is seeking to strengthen its ties with neighboring countries and promote stability and prosperity in the region.
The European Union is facing a critical juncture in its expansion efforts, with the success hinging on the commitment of its member states. This was the message delivered by Oliver Varhelyi, the EU Commissioner for Neighborhood and enlargement, during a recent meeting. Varhelyi emphasized that the opening and closing of chapters in the accession process should be a collective achievement, not solely the responsibility of the EU.
Securing this commitment from all member states will be a significant challenge for the incoming EU commission President, Ursula von der Leyen. Varhelyi highlighted the crucial role of the next two rotating EU presidencies – Poland and Denmark – in driving enlargement forward.Diplomats from both countries have already expressed their intention to prioritize this agenda.
EU in the World
Table of Contents
The Syrian conflict has taken a dramatic turn, with rebel forces seizing control of Damascus as President Bashar al-Assad’s regime crumbled. This sudden shift in power is likely to pose a headache for Russia, which is already stretched thin by conflicts in Ukraine, Gaza, and Lebanon. Moscow may soon face arduous choices as it juggles these multiple theaters of engagement.
After years of negotiations, the EU has finally sealed a trade deal with the South american mercosur trade bloc. While the political agreement is a geopolitical victory for the EU, the ratification process is expected to be lengthy and complex. The deal includes strengthened sustainability provisions and safeguards for sensitive agricultural products.
Wider Europe
European capitals are revisiting the possibility of deploying troops to Ukraine to secure a post-ceasefire position and avoid being sidelined by the new US administration.This comes after EU’s top diplomat, Kaja Kallas, suggested that Europe could play a role in monitoring a potential ceasefire and ensuring its compliance.
“So far, these discussions have concerned which countries would be willing to send soldiers to Ukraine and which would not. I believe that nothing should be excluded,” Kallas told Euractiv last week.
Defense Briefing
protecting undersea cables, including through the progress of autonomous systems, will be a key focus of the 2025 European Defence Fund program, according to an early draft of the call for applications.
European defense initiatives are facing a series of challenges, from funding disputes to concerns about supply chains and the growing threat of hybrid warfare.
A key sticking point is the European Defence Industry Programme (EDIP), which aims to bolster the EU’s defense capabilities. Discussions among EU ambassadors regarding funding for defense products manufactured under license within the EU have been postponed twice, highlighting disagreements over the program’s direction. The latest draft proposal reportedly scales back ambitions for securing long-term EU supply chains.
“We are facing a situation where Europe is looking to US companies to buy defense equipment, but US officials admit that the military-industrial complex across the pond faces similar issues: staff shortages, slow production, and low stockpiles,” Euractiv reported.
Adding to the complexity, NATO is grappling with an increase in sabotage alerts and cyberattacks, prompting a reassessment of its strategy against hybrid threats.
Meanwhile, Andrius Kubilius, the EU’s Defence Commissioner, is pushing for concrete plans to enhance the continent’s military readiness. He has pledged to present a White Paper on Defence in the new year, along with a proposal to provide loans to member states for defense spending.
In a move to strengthen its presence in the Middle East, NATO is set to open a new liaison office in Amman, Jordan.
Looking Ahead
Next week promises a busy schedule for European and international affairs. Key events include:
- EU-Moldova Parliamentary Association Committee meeting (Tuesday, December 10, Brussels)
- European Commission College orientation debate on EU-US relations (Wednesday, December 11, Brussels)
- german-Ukrainian Economic Forum (Wednesday, December 11, Berlin)
- Ukraine Ministerial (Thursday, december 12, Berlin)
- High-Level conference on Belarus (Thursday, December 12, Brussels)
- Georgia to hold presidential election amid political standoff (Saturday, December 14, Tbilisi)
The United Nations has issued a stark warning about the escalating humanitarian crisis in Sudan, where ongoing conflict has displaced millions and pushed the nation to the brink of catastrophe.
“The situation in Sudan is spiraling out of control,” said UN Secretary-General António Guterres in a recent statement. “We are witnessing a humanitarian catastrophe unfolding before our eyes.”
Fighting between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces erupted in mid-April, shattering a fragile peace and plunging the country into chaos. The conflict has resulted in thousands of casualties and forced over 2.5 million people to flee their homes, seeking refuge in neighboring countries or within Sudan itself.
“The humanitarian needs are immense and growing by the day,” Guterres added.“We are facing a race against time to prevent a full-blown famine.”
the UN has appealed for $2.6 billion in emergency aid to address the crisis, but funding remains critically short. Aid agencies are struggling to reach those in need due to ongoing violence and logistical challenges.
The international community has condemned the violence and called for an immediate ceasefire. However,diplomatic efforts to broker a lasting peace have so far been unsuccessful.
“The people of Sudan deserve peace and security,” Guterres emphasized. “The international community must redouble its efforts to find a political solution to this conflict and prevent further bloodshed.”
## EU Rams Up Enlargement: A Conversation with Dr. Maria Petrova
**World Today News:** The European Union seems to be accelerating its expansion process, notably in the Western Balkans. Can you elaborate on this shift in strategy?
**Dr. Maria Petrova, Professor of European Politics, University of Vienna:** Indeed, the EU appears to be engaging in a renewed effort to welcome new member states, particularly after a decade of slow progress. The ”merit-based” system, based on democratic values and rule of law, remains the cornerstone. However, there’s a growing recognition that the current pace is unsustainable given the geopolitical landscape.
**WTN:** Enlargement Commissioner Marta Kos spoke of “matching the efforts” of candidate countries. How significant is this change in language?
**Dr. Petrova:** This signifies a more dynamic and proactive approach. It suggests a willingness to move beyond the purely procedural and towards a more collaborative and responsive approach, acknowledging the candidate countries’ efforts and progress.
**WTN:** Which countries are currently seen as frontrunners for accession?
**Dr. Petrova:** Montenegro and Albania seem well-positioned for early accession, possibly within the next few years. They have consistently demonstrated commitment to reforms and alignment with EU standards.
**WTN:** But other candidates face hurdles. What are the main challenges for countries like North Macedonia and Serbia?
**dr. Petrova:** North Macedonia’s accession is currently stalled due to constitutional amendments required by Bulgaria, highlighting the complexities of bilateral issues.
Serbia’s path is complicated by concerns over its alignment with EU foreign policy,particularly regarding Kosovo,and its commitment to the rule of law. While Hungary’s presidency sought to advance Serbia’s talks, enduring progress remains uncertain.
**WTN:** How crucial is the role of member states in this accelerated process?
**Dr. petrova:** Vital.As Commissioner Varhelyi emphasized, the opening and closing of accession chapters shouldn’t be solely the EU’s duty.
Securing unreserved commitment from all member states will be a key challenge for the next commission president.
The upcoming Polish and Danish presidencies are crucial, as they have already signaled their intention to prioritize enlargement.
**WTN:** What are the broader geopolitical implications of accelerated EU enlargement?
**Dr. Petrova:** A more expansive EU strengthens its geopolitical standing and promotes stability in the region. It also sends a powerful message of commitment to democratic values and the rule of law. However, the success hinges on the EU’s ability to effectively integrate new members while addressing concerns about potential economic and social disparities.
**WTN:** Thank you for your insights, Dr. Petrova. This certainly is a pivotal moment for the EU’s future.
