European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has announced a sweeping series of policy evaluations designed to ensure the effective functioning of the 27-nation European Union (EU) as it prepares to welcome new members in the coming years.
President von der Leyen emphasized the need for the EU to be ready to expand its membership beyond the current 27 nations, with aspirations to grow to more than 30 members. Prospective additions include Ukraine, Moldova, and nations in the Western Balkans, among others.
Despite its current size, the world’s largest trading bloc encounters challenges in making decisions, particularly those requiring unanimous agreement. Instances of Hungary and Poland opposing foreign policy and migration decisions have underscored these difficulties.
Pressure is mounting on the EU to expand its boundaries, primarily due to concerns regarding Russia’s influence in the Western Balkans, particularly in countries such as Serbia and Bosnia. Several nations in the region have long aspired to join the EU but have faced obstacles in their membership journeys.
President von der Leyen addressed EU lawmakers in Strasbourg, France, stating, “History is now calling us to work on completing our union. In a world where size and influence matter, Europe’s strategic interests are clear.”
However, she also emphasized the necessity to assess each policy area and consider necessary adaptations. The forthcoming reviews by the European Commission will scrutinize how various policy sectors, such as the economy, energy, agriculture, and migration, may need adjustment in light of expansion.
Moreover, discussions on the functioning of EU institutions, including the European Parliament and the Commission, as well as the future of the EU budget, will be vital components of these deliberation.
While European Council President Charles Michel envisions new members being welcomed by 2030, President von der Leyen stressed that accession should be merit-based. Progress in aligning national laws with EU regulations and standards should dictate the pace of membership, rather than adhering to arbitrary deadlines.
Ukraine and Moldova were recently granted EU candidate status, an unusually swift decision given the EU’s cautious approach to expansion, influenced by the Ukraine conflict. Additionally, a “European perspective” was recognized for Georgia.
While Serbia and Montenegro have begun membership negotiations, Albania and North Macedonia initiated the integration process last year. Bosnia and Kosovo have taken preliminary steps toward integration.
Turkey, whose membership talks began 18 years ago, was not explicitly mentioned, with negotiations currently at a standstill.
The EU is poised for a transformative period, setting its sights on an expanded, diverse membership while diligently evaluating the intricacies of this pivotal endeavor.
Source AP
