| The accession talks with Albania will be completed at the earliest by 2027. But to achieve that, there is still work to be done. Priority must especially be given to combating corruption and organized crime, according to the European Parliament’s report. Tirana must also ensure a stronger and more pluralistic media landscape. The report points to political polarization in Albania – where confrontational rhetoric is common – and calls for a more inclusive and constructive political dialogue. Furthermore, Albania is urged to guarantee the independence of the judiciary. Fundamental rights of citizens must also be protected. North Macedonia likewise must more actively fight corruption, implement reforms and combat organized crime to be allowed EU membership. Given the high-level corruption and low public trust in the judiciary, the European Parliament calls for stronger judicial independence, more accountability, and sufficient oversight and controls. Bosnia and Herzegovina also aspires to join the EU but struggles with significant internal divisions. The European Parliament welcomes the decision of the EU countries to begin negotiations with the country, especially considering the geopolitical situation due to the war in Ukraine. The country has a small but active pro-Russian Serb community. However, to eventually accede, Bosnia and Herzegovina must not fall apart. Partly for this reason, the MEPs condemn the separatist policies of politician Milorad Dodik and the leadership of the Serb-oriented entity Republika Srpska. These sow division and cause instability. The EU must take strong measures against this, including imposing sanctions, according to Parliament. Dutch MEP Tineke Strik (GreenLeft) calls a possible accession of Albania in 2027 ‘historic’. ‘Of course, improvements are still needed in the rule of law, fundamental freedoms, press freedom, and combating corruption. But I am confident that the Albanian government can meet these priorities in time.’ Regarding Bosnia, the international community must help the country, Strik says. ‘The EU in particular must take action to help the country overcome division so that Bosnia can flourish as an inclusive and true democracy and, of course, as an EU member state.’ PvdA MEP and shadow rapporteur Thijs Reuten stated that there is frustration in North Macedonia regarding the negotiation process and that he understands that. ‘We call on the European Council to guarantee a credible path forward without new conditions for the next step in the accession process.’ |
European Parliament sets conditions for EU accession of Balkan countries
Albania, North Macedonia and Bosnia and Herzegovina can only become EU members if they actually implement the reforms desired by Brussels. This concerns not only the fight against corruption and crime but also strengthening the democratic rule of law. On Wednesday, the European Parliament adopted three progress reports on the three Balkan countries.
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