The EU Prepares to Welcome New Members
Perspective by Luigi Soreca
Luigi Soreca, Head of the EU Delegation and EU Special Representative in Bosnia and Herzegovina, writes about the European Union’s renewed focus on enlargement. For the first time in more than ten years, the EU is actively getting ready to admit new member states. This marks a significant step toward strengthening stability and unity across Europe.
Geopolitical Context and Strategic Importance
The drive to expand the Union is closely tied to ongoing geopolitical changes. According to Soreca, the urgency of enlargement has become one of the EU’s top political priorities, essential for maintaining peace, security, and stability across the continent.
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.
Engagement with Bosnia and Herzegovina
Bosnia and Herzegovina has received increasing attention from EU leaders. Recent visits by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, European Council President Antonio Costa, High Representative and Vice President Kaja Kallas, and Enlargement Commissioner Marta Kos underline this renewed engagement.
Progress of Candidate Countries
- Montenegro aims to complete its accession talks by the end of 2026.
- Albania targets the end of 2027 for concluding negotiations.
- Bosnia and Herzegovina, despite its strong potential, has yet to formally begin accession negotiations.
Author’s Note
The Country Report serves as Bosnia and Herzegovina’s main guide to advance toward EU membership and reach the final stages of integration.
Author’s summary: The EU is reopening its doors to new members, with clear steps for Bosnia and Herzegovina to follow in order to move closer to accession.