European Union leaders are urging a more efficient and credible path for the bloc’s enlargement, emphasizing the need to integrate new members swiftly. During a summit held in Montenegro with leaders from six Western Balkan nations, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz highlighted the EU’s necessity to showcase its ability to expand and its commitment to incorporating the region into its future. Merz pointed out that no new country has joined the EU in over a decade, underscoring the urgency for reform in the accession process.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen supported this stance, advocating for more effective and reliable membership negotiations for aspiring countries. Attending the summit were representatives from Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo, Montenegro, North Macedonia, and Serbia—all of which are seeking EU membership. Among these, Montenegro is considered the most advanced candidate, aiming for accession by 2028.
French President Emmanuel Macron stressed the strategic importance of EU enlargement for Europe’s security, energy independence, and migration management. He endorsed the concept of “gradual integration,” allowing candidate countries to engage in select EU institutions and initiatives before achieving full membership. This approach is seen as a way to ensure stability and reduce external influences in the region.
The push for EU expansion has gained traction following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, with Ukraine and Moldova also pursuing membership. Brussels views enlargement as a crucial strategy to fortify regional stability. However, despite increased political backing, the accession process remains lengthy, requiring extensive reforms from candidate nations and unanimous approval from all 27 EU member states at each procedural stage.