Expanding the European Union: Critical Decisions, Challenges, and Future Prospects for Candidate Countries

During the latest European Council held in Brussels on December 14th and 15th, among the various topics discussed, one of the primary focuses was the eastern enlargement of the European Union. At the summit, the heads of state and government of the 27 member states decided to officially initiate accession negotiations with Ukraine and Moldova, while granting candidate status to Georgia. Additionally, regarding another candidate country, Bosnia and Herzegovina, diplomatic sources indicated strong consensus for opening accession negotiations once the necessary degree of compliance with accession criteria is achieved.

Until the last moment, there were concerns that Hungary might veto the initiation of accession negotiations with Ukraine, as Prime Minister Viktor Orbán has consistently opposed the latter's accession to the European Union. However, during the vote, the Hungarian Prime Minister opted not to attend the European Council meeting. Therefore, he was considered a "non-voter," thus not compromising the legality of the decision made by the other countries, all of whom voted in favor.

Before delving into the consideration of the current EU enlargement process and presenting the status of each candidate, it is necessary to explain what the enlargement policy involving the European Union actually entails.

The Enlargement Policy of the European Union

The EU enlargement policy is a process aimed at integrating new members into the Union once they meet a set of political and economic conditions. Any European state that upholds European democratic values and pledges to advance them can apply for membership. To be eligible, a state must satisfy the accession criteria, commonly known as the Copenhagen criteria, established during the European summit held in the Danish capital in 1993. These criteria encompass political responsiveness, economic stability, administrative and institutional capability.

Political criteria require the applicant country to have stable institutions that can maintain democracy, uphold the rule of law, protect human rights, and respect and safeguard minorities. Economic criteria require a functioning market economy and the ability to handle competition and market forces. The final criterion involves efficiently absorbing and implementing EU law, known as the acquis communautaire, and undertaking obligations upon joining the European Union.

The process officially begins once all current Member States unanimously approve the start of negotiations. These negotiations primarily focus on consolidating EU law and implementing necessary judicial, administrative, and economic reforms. Following negotiation completion, ratifying the accession of the new EU member state is the responsibility of the Parliament, the Council, and national parliaments. Particularly, the Council, operating within its "General Affairs" formation, oversees the enlargement process and accession negotiations throughout.

Ukraine: Reforming Strides and Economic Obstacles

During the last European Council meeting, the EU recognized Ukraine's strides in legal and judicial reforms, public administration, and the protection of fundamental rights, urging the country to continue its reform efforts. The Council also praised the progress made in combating corruption and the steps taken to curb the influence of oligarchs. Moreover, the economic hardships stemming from the Russian invasion were underscored during the summit, emphasizing the vital role of maintaining the independence of regulatory authorities and the Central Bank. Consequently, the EU will continue to support Ukraine's energy security while advocating for its deeper integration into the EU's internal market.

Moldova: Substantial Advances and Challenges in the Aftermath of Russian Aggression

The Council commended Moldova for its significant progress as a candidate country, despite facing challenges from Russian aggression against Ukraine and hybrid actions against Moldova itself. Moreover, Moldova's commitment to reforming the country was highlighted, along with the critical need to uphold consistent advancement in the domains of legal framework, judiciary, and fundamental rights, including those of minorities. Furthermore, the Council also urged Moldova to advance in judicial reform and the fight against corruption, while continuing with ongoing economic and financial reforms. Additionally, the Council emphasized the importance of enhancing public administration and financial management, while fostering structured dialogue with civil society. Lastly, the reaffirmation of support for Moldova's sovereignty and territorial integrity was accompanied by a positive reception of the country's strategic alignment with the EU, along with encouragement for the candidate country to continue adhering to the EU's shared positions.

Georgia: The Call for Clear Commitment to the European Union

 The Council has called on Georgia to demonstrate a clear commitment to EU values by advancing in the reform program and meeting the specific conditions outlined by the Commission for EU membership. Recognizing the sincere aspirations of the majority of Georgian citizens for EU accession, the Council has also commended the country for its comprehensive legislative framework, institutional structure, and active civil society, which provide strong foundations for democratic and rule of law reforms. Besides, the progress in reforming public administration, public procurement, and economic policies was highlighted, alongside the importance of maintaining alignment with EU regulations and standards. Additionally, the Council emphasized the utmost importance of ensuring the full independence, accountability, and impartiality of state institutions, particularly the judiciary. It also underscored the need to establish a strong track record of investigations into corruption and organized crime. Highlighting the importance of a robust electoral framework, the Council urged Georgia to ensure free and fair elections by implementing the recommendations from the OSCE/ODIHR and the Council of Europe/Venice Commission.

Bosnia and Herzegovina: Acknowledgement of Reform Initiatives and the Call for Steady Development

The Council prompted Bosnia and Herzegovina to continue making progress in reforms, emphasizing the importance of full compliance with all laws according to the EU acquis. Specifically, the Council highlighted the need for additional constitutional and electoral reforms to ensure equality and non-discrimination among all citizens. Authentic dialogue was called for to eliminate inequalities and discrimination in the electoral process. Additional primary concerns addressed were legislation on freedom of expression and the media, corruption, fundamental rights, and migration management. Bosnia and Herzegovina was encouraged to actively participate in regional cooperation and foster good neighborly relations, while also enhancing alignment with the EU's common foreign and security policy.

Looking Ahead: EU Enlargement Perspectives

During the latest General Affairs Council on December 12, 2023, the European Union reiterated its commitment to enlargement as a fundamental aspect of its foreign and security policy. The Russian invasion of Ukraine has, in fact, emphasized the imperative of stabilizing the Union's external borders, including through the enlargement policy, as a top security priority. Consequently, the Council has called upon the European Commission to provide an opinion on the accession applications of Ukraine, Moldova, and Georgia by mid-2024. This opinion will serve as a crucial step in initiating accession negotiations. The Council's stance on enlargement underscores the European Union's dedication to upholding democracy and the rule of law in Eastern and Southeastern European nations. Through this commitment, the EU aims to showcase that membership is an attainable objective for countries sharing its democratic and liberal values, demonstrating their commitment not only to internal reform but also to promoting these values externally.

Translated by Iuliana Cindrea

Mondo Internazionale APS - Riproduzione Riservata®2023