This brief intends to explain how the European Commission’s proposal for the 2028-2034 Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF) addresses EU enlargement, which is once again a paramount concern following a decade of stagnation and in light of the full-fledged Russian invasion of Ukraine. With Ukraine, Moldova and Georgia submitting EU membership applications, and amid growing awareness of the risk of destabilisation in the Western Balkans if the EU does not demonstrate a genuine commitment to enlargement, the 2028-2034 MFF marks a watershed moment: it is the first proposal for an EU multiannual budget to explicitly consider the pressure that will be placed on the EU’s long-term budget by incorporating countries with weaker economies, incomplete governance reforms, and urgent reconstruction needs. This policy brief addresses three key issues:
- What funding is dedicated to enlargement,
- Whether it is sufficient to meet the challenge; and
- Whether the proposal adequately prepares the EU for the inclusion of new Member States.
The brief is part of the Friends of the Western Balkans (FoWB) project, organised by FEPS in cooperation with the Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung Dialogue Southeast Europe, Karl Renner Institut, Kalevi Sorsa Foundation, Fondation Jean-Jaurès, Foundation Max van der Stoel, Društvo Progresiva and Olof Palme International Center. The project provides the opportunity for exchange – between members of the European Parliament, members of European national parliaments from the Social Democratic family, and academics, activists and analysts – on the European enlargement process to the Western Balkans. The project aims to increase mutual understanding while discussing the future of the European Union and preparing the ground for accession.
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