The Council of the European Union has approved a Growth Plan for the Western Balkans (2024-2027), offering up to 2 billion EUR in grants and 4 billion EUR in loans. Beneficiaries must meet preconditions like democratic governance, free media, rule of law, and alignment with EU foreign policy, including measures against Russia. They must submit Reform Agendas based on assessments from the EU’s Enlargement Package and Economic Plan. In its opinion for the Growth Plan for the Western Balkans, EESC advocates for a gradual, predictable, merit-based approach to EU accession, emphasizing the gradual closure of socio-economic convergence gaps and the importance of preserving democracy and the rule of law. It suggests clear and transparent guidance on conditionality, support for countries in evaluating market integration, and alignment of financial support with readiness for membership. It highlights the importance of regional cooperation and proposes transparent monitoring systems for commitment implementation. Read more here.
Source: European Western Balkans/ EESC