On October 15, EU leaders will meet for a “strategic discussion” on EU enlargement and internal reforms. Shortly thereafter, the European Commission is expected to release its annual Enlargement Package. Close to this moment, we will bring experts and decision-makers together at this conference to discuss how to provide more conceptual clarity on this process and navigate the way forward.
In the first session, we will assess what has been achieved so far and which key decisions will be adopted at the December EU summit. Specifically, we will compare the Commission’s strategy for the four frontrunners – Montenegro, Albania, Ukraine, and Moldova – with that for the less advancing candidate countries. In this context, we will explore what gradual integration can offer for countries further away from membership.
The second session will address the final stage of Montenegro’s accession talks. It will take a closer look at the drafting of the accession treaty and proposed post-accession safeguards.
The final session will reflect on modalities and perspectives of a special accession path for Ukraine. After a German proposal to Ukraine for “associate membership” received a cold reception in Kyiv, there is a risk of further alienation between Ukraine and the EU. At the same time, Ukraine’s reform process is stagnating ahead of what will again be a very difficult winter of war. Against this backdrop, we will reflect on critical factors and a political timeframe for Ukraine ahead of Europe’s super election year in 2027.
The event will be held in English.
If you would like to participate, please contact Nikola Xaviereff (xaviereff@dgap.org).