Five EU states propose 'step-by-step' access for Western Balkans

Austria, Italy, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, and Slovenia have proposed a "step-by-step" model for integrating Western Balkan countries into the EU's single market, according to a confidential document circulated among member states and reported by Euractiv on Wednesday.

The five EU members outlined a framework for "systematic sectoral integration" that would allow candidate countries to gradually participate in EU programs as they align with European rules, the document stated. It suggested expanding access to transport, energy, digital markets, competitiveness strategies, and critical raw materials while maintaining merit-based criteria.

Safeguards and strategic aims

The paper included provisions to revoke access if candidate countries backtrack on reforms after entering parts of the single market, according to the report. It further called on EU Enlargement Commissioner Marta Kos to advance new proposals along these lines, arguing the approach would strengthen the single market and help counter the influence of third countries, including Russia and China.

The proposal comes as Western Balkan capitals seek accelerated integration amid growing concerns over geopolitical competition in the region. "To sustain the momentum of enlargement and advance European integration, strong and attractive incentives are needed," the five countries said in the confidential document.