WB6 SG: EU accession of Western Balkans: Stale technical processes need bold political steps

The composition of the new EU institutions – particularly the proposed appointments of Estonia’s Kaja Kallas and Slovenia’s Marta Kos in key positions at EEAS and the enlargement portfolio – seem positive (at least on paper) in fulfilling the promise of a geopolitical EU that both understands the importance of the enlargement process and reinserts credibility and democratic standards at the core o. [...] The rising number of far-right governments in Europe and the growing uncertainty over the stability of governments in the key countries of France and Germany presents risks to the enlargement agenda in the EU Council, where several countries have already been known to abuse the process to settle bilateral disputes with accession countries, or to allow momentary domestic political agendas to dictat. [...] [1] Meanwhile, there is no end in sight to the war in Ukraine and there are aggressive efforts by Russia to undermine the EU path of Moldova and Georgia.[2] These dynamics may impact the ability of the candidate countries from the Black Sea region to move ahead with reforms, make credible cases for membership and sustain the political momentum for enlargement within the EU from which the Western B. [...] It remains mainly as a platform for exchange between the countries of the region without having much regional ownership and continuity of initiatives.[8] The inability of the region to develop consensus and a common agenda also hampers its ability to advocate with one voice in the EU, which is critical considering the already difficult task of keeping enlargement high in the EU agenda. [...] Tangible and credible dates for accession could be provided attached with clear benefits provided during the process like the gradual integration into the EU single market.[14] This will change the domestic dynamic in regional countries to one in which reformers have the upper hand and can have the tools to deliver to citizens and to offer a vision for the future.