On 6 October, the European Commission presented a package of proposals designed to prepare the European Union for the admission of new members. Among the candidates are Montenegro, Albania, Ukraine and Moldova. The initiative is intended to reassure existing member states about the possible political and economic costs of enlargement.
The key element is an institutional safeguard. During the first 15 years of membership, other EU countries will be able to suspend a new member's voting rights if it stops upholding the bloc's fundamental values. The measure is meant to complement the existing Article 7 of the treaty, which in practice is applied rarely and slowly.
The Commission also proposes limiting financial support for Ukraine's large agricultural sector. At the same time, the policy of gradually integrating candidates into EU programmes in the fields of energy, transport, digital technology and defence is being stepped up. Participation in each scheme will depend on meeting the criteria and aligning with the union's overall strategic line.
The proposals reflect the lessons learned from Hungary's experience under Viktor Orbán. Russia invaded Ukraine in 2022, and this gave enlargement a geopolitical impetus. Now Brussels wants to avoid a repeat of situations in which a single member blocks decisions on key issues.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said: “As the candidate countries advance along the path of reform, the EU must be ready to take them in. This means preparing the institutions, adapting policies to new realities and securing a budget that reflects our shared ambitions.”
Montenegro is considered the most advanced candidate and could complete negotiations as early as the end of the year. Albania, Moldova and Ukraine are further behind, but are also among the leaders. How the new safeguards will affect the pace and terms of accession remains to be seen in practice.
