European Union leaders are advocating for a more efficient and credible approach to expanding the bloc, emphasizing the need to demonstrate both the willingness and the ability to incorporate new members. During a summit held in Montenegro, which included leaders from six Western Balkan nations, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz stressed the importance of the EU’s capacity to grow and its dedication to integrating this region into its future. He pointed out that it has been over a decade since a new member joined, underscoring the urgency for reform in the accession process.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen supported this perspective, highlighting the necessity of making membership negotiations more effective and reliable for aspiring members. The summit saw participation from Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo, Montenegro, North Macedonia, and Serbia, all of whom are pursuing EU membership. Of these, Montenegro is seen as the leading candidate, with hopes of joining the EU by 2028.
French President Emmanuel Macron emphasized the strategic importance of enlargement for Europe’s security, energy autonomy, and migration management. He also supported the idea of “gradual integration,” which would allow candidate countries to engage in selected EU institutions and initiatives before achieving full membership.
The momentum for EU expansion has been bolstered in the aftermath of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Alongside the Western Balkan countries, Ukraine and Moldova are also seeking EU membership. The EU views this enlargement as a strategy to enhance regional stability and minimize external influences.
Despite the increasing political will, the path to EU accession remains a challenging and protracted process. It demands extensive reforms from candidate nations and requires unanimous consent from all 27 member states at each phase of the process.