Enlargement: the EU should overcome the status quo, MEPs are set to say
MEPs are expected to call on the EU to boost enlargement policy as its strongest geopolitical tool, in a debate on Tuesday and a vote on Wednesday.
In light of the growing Russian threat to European peace and stability, MEPs are likely to urge the EU to reenergise the enlargement process, within its own ranks and in accession countries. In a debate on the new EU strategy for enlargement, MEPs are expected to call on member states to deliver on the EU’s commitments towards the Western Balkan and Eastern Partnership countries, underlining that democracy and the rule of law should be key in the enlargement process.
MEPs are also expected to call on Serbia to align with the EU’s common foreign and security policy and its sanctions against Russia.
Background
The EU is in accession negotiations with Montenegro, Serbia, North Macedonia and Albania, while talks with Turkey have been frozen. Bosnia and Herzegovina and Kosovo are potential candidates. EU leaders granted candidate status to Ukraine and Moldova on 23 June 2022, setting additional requirements for Georgia to be able to receive the same status.
Debate: Tuesday, 22 November
Vote: Wednesday, 23 November
Procedure: Own-initiative report