EU leaders reaffirm commitment to Western Balkans membership

European Union leaders have used a high-level summit to forcefully reiterate their commitment to the eventual membership of Western Balkan nations. Speaking after the EU-Western Balkans summit in Brussels on Wednesday, European Council President Antonio Costa stated that enlargement remains a "central" shared objective for the bloc, framing it as a deeply transformative process essential for a stable and prosperous Europe.

A Merit-Based Path and Call for Momentum

Costa described the enlargement process as strictly "merit-based," not a competition, and encouraged faster-moving candidates to set a positive pace for others. He welcomed the "good progress" made over the past year by Montenegro, Albania, North Macedonia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Kosovo. While acknowledging that "some reforms will be difficult," he expressed confidence in the region's commitment and urged all parties to maintain momentum, with the EU offering support "every step of the way."

Shared Security and the 'European Family'

The summit underscored that the relationship extends beyond geography to encompass shared security responsibilities. EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas noted on social media platform X that the EU is enhancing security and defense cooperation with the region to counter hybrid threats and foreign interference. Costa concluded with a powerful affirmation of belonging, stating, "They are all part of the European family, and the European Union is their place."

Geopolitical Context and Strategic Importance

This strong reaffirmation comes at a time of heightened geopolitical competition in Southeast Europe, where other global powers are also vying for influence. The EU's consistent message aims to anchor the region firmly within the European sphere, emphasizing that socioeconomic convergence with the EU is the surest path to long-term stability and prosperity for the Western Balkans.