“This year’s package reconfirms that EU enlargement remains a key priority on the EU agenda. It also shows that accession is increasingly within reach for several candidate countries,” the Commission stated.
Ten countries are officially seeking to join the EU: Montenegro, Albania, Ukraine, Moldova, Serbia, North Macedonia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo, and Türkiye.
In its report, the Commission reiterated that the speed of the accession process depends on reforms — especially in democracy, rule of law, and fundamental rights.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen emphasised the strategic importance of enlargement, stating that a larger Union means a “stronger and more influential Europe on the global stage.” She stressed that while enlargement is a merit-based process, accession remains “an exceptional opportunity” for committed partners willing to implement the necessary reforms.
The Commission underlined that over the past year, candidate countries have made significant progress. It also committed to helping both the aspiring states and the EU itself prepare for future enlargement, announcing that it will soon present an in-depth review of each candidate’s situation.
The report also stresses that the EU itself must undergo major internal reforms to be ready for new members. Future accession treaties, it argues, should include stronger safeguards preventing backsliding on commitments agreed during negotiations.
Another key priority highlighted by the Commission is effective communication, including efforts to counter disinformation, manipulation, and external interference.