The article highlights the shifting dynamics in the European Union’s enlargement strategy, with a focus on the Western Balkans. The ongoing conflict in Ukraine has revitalized the EU’s commitment to enlargement, demonstrating a strategic imperative to integrate Eastern Europe trio and Western Balkan countries. While Ukraine’s accession has been expedited, the Western Balkans continue to face slow progress due to longstanding issues like bilateral disputes and reform fatigue. Recent developments include the start of accession talks with Bosnia and Herzegovina, Albania, and North Macedonia, and the introduction of the Reform and Growth Facility to gradually integrate these countries into the EU single market. As new EU leadership emerges, overcoming internal blockages and reinforcing institutional reforms will be crucial for advancing the Western Balkans’ EU membership aspirations. Read more here.
Source: IWM