The Balkans earlier in the EU due to geopolitical tensions?

Geostrategic considerations like Russian aggression in Ukraine and possible areas of Russian influence are playing an increasingly important role in recent developments in the EU enlargement process. The tense geopolitical situation makes it more necessary than ever to end the reunification of our continent under the values of democracy and rule of law”, said EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen on the occasion of presenting the annual enlargement report.

In this report, the EU Commission provides a mirror of EU enlargement and provides recommendations for further steps. These must then be decided by the Council, in which all member states are part.

Relations with Russia as demarcation line

At the EU High Representative Josep Borrell's press conference, the point was very clear: “you can't continue to have relations with Russia or try to move on and expect the country to become an EU member.”

When it comes to foreign policy, several countries, such as Northern Macedonia, Albania, Montenegro, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and voluntarily Kosovo, are already fully in line with the EU line.

Montenegro and Albania  

Among the six Western Balkan countries, Montenegro is currently ahead when it comes to EU membership. This country is located in the final phase, which includes closing chapters that have already been negotiated, EU Enlargement Commissioner Oliver Varhely explained. The question of when the enlargement agreement would be drafted, he said he could not give any specific date.

The EU and Albania are negotiating key aspects of future membership since October. In its EU report, it urges Albania to speed up relevant reforms, but also recommends opening the negotiation chapter for foreign policy.

Serbia, Kosovo

From Serbia, the EU Commission wants this country to adopt its foreign policy with EU positions, for example. in the case of sanctions against Russia. Stressing the need for normalising relations with Kosovo, the Commission also voiced the opening of further negotiating chapters.

For Kosovo, which remains a potential candidate for membership, the EU Commission particularly requires strengthening the rule of law and public administration. If the Council gives him the mandate, he is willing to take further steps for the membership process.

Macedonia of Ver and Bosnia and Herzegovina

Neither Northern Macedonia nor Bosnia and Herzegovina are in the corresponding phase of negotiations. According to the EU Commission, Northern Macedonia needs further reforms, especially in the area of rule of law, justice system and the fight against corruption.

Bosnia and Herzegovina must also implement EU recommendations before the next formal steps to start negotiations are implemented. / DW