Geopolitical tensions take a backseat as the EU emphasizes expansion efforts

In a recent informal meeting of European Affairs Ministers in Copenhagen on September 2, 2025, the European Commission emphasised the necessity of EU enlargement as a key strategy for the Union's long-term security and stability.

Marta Kos, the European Commissioner for Enlargement, placed enlargement "at the top of Europe's agenda." She emphasised that the process is not just about adding new members but also about the broader goal of European unification. Enlargement, Kos stated, fosters political cohesion within the EU and plays a crucial role in ensuring Europe's capacity to respond to security challenges.

The meeting focused heavily on the need for candidate countries to meet the Copenhagen criteria, which include adherence to the rule of law, democratic governance, and effective internal reforms. Kos reaffirmed that the EU's doors remain open for countries meeting these criteria fully, fairly, and transparently.

Currently, Kosovo is acknowledged as a potential candidate, pending further progress. The countries furthest in the EU accession process are Serbia and Montenegro. However, the largest challenges are posed by Turkey and Bosnia and Herzegovina. Bosnia and Herzegovina is recognised as an official EU candidate country, while Turkey's bid has faced delays due to political obstacles within the EU.

Moldova and Ukraine are close to completing comprehensive screening across all negotiation clusters, but their bids have also faced delays. The ongoing war in Ukraine and evolving U.S. policies have underscored the need for a stronger, more resilient EU, according to Danish Minister for European Affairs, Marie Bjerre. She stated that a larger, more unified European Union would be better equipped to defend itself and respond to international crises.

The accession process is moving faster now than it has in the last 15 years. Albania and Montenegro have made significant progress in the accession process. Other member states have urged for the enlargement process to continue to avoid undermining regional stability and the EU's geopolitical strategy.

The role of the EU on the global stage is reinforced through enlargement. Bjerre added that enlargement is critical for ensuring Europe's long-term security and stability. Officials stressed that gradual integration and alignment with EU standards are crucial to ensure that new members can join smoothly and contribute to a stable Union.

Georgia received candidate status in 2023. However, Hungary's veto has stalled Ukraine's and Moldova's accession bids. Despite these challenges, the EU's commitment to enlargement remains firm. Kos emphasised that enlargement is a geopolitical necessity for a stronger, more resilient EU.

In conclusion, the EU's enlargement process is a strategic imperative for strengthening Europe's capacity to respond to security challenges and for fostering political cohesion within the Union. The EU's doors remain open for countries that meet the Copenhagen criteria, and the accession process is moving faster than ever before. The ongoing enlargement process is a testament to the EU's commitment to a stronger, more united Europe.