The President of the European Council has called for the European Union to expand and accept new members by 2030. The Western Balkans and the association Trio, comprising of Ukraine, Moldova and Georgia, are the main groups currently seeking to join. The process of EU accession is complicated and requires significant reforms from candidate countries. Previous disputes have also slowed progress. The EU is currently undergoing a debate on whether and how to reform itself before letting new members in. Despite the renewed focus, many see a 2030 timeline for expansion as far-fetched.
1. Charles Michelle called for EU expansion and taking in new members by 2030 with countries from the Balkans to Eastern Europe seeking to join.
2. The EU could potentially grow from 27 to 36 members.
3. EU accession process is long and complicated, with a country having to meet criteria and bring administrative and institutional infrastructure up to EU standards.
4. Disputes among potential members have stalled the process, such as North Macedonia's naming dispute with Greece and Bulgaria.
5. Lack of appetite for growth among existing member states has also slowed the process, with some reluctant to let in new members.
6. Russia's invasion of Ukraine has forced EU enlargement back on the agenda.
7. EU reform must come before enlargement, according to some EU members such as Emmanuel Macron and Olaf Schultz.
8. Significant funds will be needed to help close the development gap between new and existing members.
9. The EU needs to undergo significant reform before letting in new members.
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