For a long time, EU enlargement remained a low priority, with Croatia being the most recent country to join in 2013.
However, the war in Ukraine has reshaped the European geopolitical landscape, making expansion an urgent necessity for the EU’s survival. The Western Balkans—a fragmented yet strategically vital region—hold aspirations of joining the Union.
Their accession would not only bolster the EU’s credibility as a geopolitical actor but also contribute to long-term political stability and economic prosperity in the region.
The Western Balkans consist of Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo, Montenegro, North Macedonia, and Serbia. Integrating these nations into the EU could enhance Europe’s security, energy independence, and border stability.
The region plays a crucial role in reducing dependence on Russian energy, particularly through key infrastructure projects like the Trans Adriatic Pipeline. Additionally, EU integration would facilitate freedom of movement and trade, while enhancing cooperation in tackling organized crime, human trafficking, and illicit trade.
Countering External Influence
One of the most pressing reasons for Western Balkan accession is to counter foreign influence, particularly from Russia and China. Russia maintains strong historical and political ties with Serbia and leverages these connections to exert pressure on the wider region.
Serbia’s reluctance to impose sanctions on Russia, its continued military cooperation with Moscow, and its direct flight routes to Russia highlight these ties. Meanwhile, China has expanded its influence through the Belt and Road Initiative, using the Balkans as a gateway into Europe for trade and investment.
By advancing EU integration, the Union could limit these external influences and solidify its geopolitical standing.
Challenges to Enlargement
Despite the benefits, integrating the Western Balkans into the EU presents significant challenges.
These nations generally have lower GDP per capita and employment rates than existing EU members, and issues such as corruption, weak governance, and inadequate infrastructure persist.
Additionally, unresolved regional disputes and strained relations with certain EU member states may further complicate accession.
- Albania is the most pro-EU country in the region and an official candidate, but must implement economic reforms and anti-corruption measures to meet EU standards.
- Bosnia and Herzegovina faces similar challenges, requiring constitutional and judicial reforms to align with EU norms.
- North Macedonia and Montenegro have made progress but still need to enhance their legal frameworks and democratic institutions.
- Kosovo faces a major hurdle due to its non-recognition by several EU members, as well as ongoing tensions with Serbia.
- Serbia, while a candidate, remains in a precarious position due to its refusal to recognize Kosovo and its close ties to Russia.
The Future of Enlargement
Some EU members argue that internal reform should take precedence over expansion, citing concerns over democratic backsliding in countries like Hungary and Poland.
While this is a valid
While this is valid, prolonged delays could drive the Western Balkans toward alternative alliances, with China and Russia, in turn diminishing European influence in the region.
Striking a balance between internal reforms and enlargement is crucial to maintaining the EU’s geopolitical strength.
Ultimately, the EU must follow through on its promises to the Balkans. Concrete progress in accession negotiations will be essential to securing the region’s alignment with Europe, ensuring stability, and reinforcing the EU as a formidable political and economic bloc.
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