In their paper, the authors highlight the process of redefining the EU’s enlargement strategy in the light of geopolitical changes, especially after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, with a focus on the integration of Ukraine, Moldova and the Western Balkans by 2030. They argue that the cycle of indecision can be broken if the EU links the new Growth Plan to critical reforms and negotiating chapters, providing incentives for candidate countries to overcome bilateral differences. Furthermore, according to the authors, a credible roadmap for deeper integration, clarity on the necessary reforms and effective communication to ensure public support are essential for a successful enlargement process.
Authors: Ioannis Armakolas, Senior Research Fellow, Head, South-East Europe Programme, ELIAMEP. Alexandra Voudouri, Research Fellow, Journalist, media analysis, Foreign & European affairs policies.
This article is available on the ELIAMEP website.