On 6 October, the European Commission presented its Communication Preparing for a Wider Union, outlining reforms to prepare EU institutions, policies and financing for future enlargement. The document places particular emphasis on democracy, fundamental rights and the rule of law, proposing stronger monitoring, reform-linked financial support and safeguards against democratic backsliding. It also foresees closer cooperation with enlargement countries under the European Democracy Shield and the European Centre for Democratic Resilience, covering electoral integrity, media freedom, protection of journalists and human rights defenders, civic space and citizen participation. The Commission further proposes gradual integration into EU programmes and institutions, alongside annual dialogues to assess progress. Civil society is also recognised in preparations for enlargement, with planned dialogues involving citizens, businesses, social partners and civil society in current and future Member States. Read more here.
Source: European Commission