Soreca: The EU is Preparing to Accept New Members
Column by Luigi Soreca
Luigi Soreca, Head of the EU Delegation and EU Special Representative in Bosnia and Herzegovina, highlights the EU's renewed efforts to welcome new members after more than a decade. EU enlargement has become a tangible possibility in the coming years, driven by pressing geopolitical changes and the need to maintain peace and stability across Europe.
This priority is reinforced by recent visits to Bosnia and Herzegovina by key EU leaders, including European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, European Council President Antonio Costa, High Representative and Vice President Kaja Kallas, and Enlargement Commissioner Marta Kos.
Progress Among Candidate Countries
- Montenegro aims to complete accession negotiations by the end of 2026.
- Albania targets the conclusion of its negotiations by the end of 2027.
- Bosnia and Herzegovina, while possessing significant potential, has yet to formally begin accession talks.
"The urgency of enlarging the EU to take account of geopolitical shifts and ensure peace and stability across the continent makes enlargement one of the EU’s highest priorities."
Despite delays, Bosnia and Herzegovina’s country report serves as a critical roadmap to help it overcome remaining obstacles and move toward EU membership.
Author’s Summary
The EU is actively preparing to accept new members soon, with Montenegro and Albania leading the way, while Bosnia and Herzegovina must leverage its country report to advance its accession process.