Western Balkans: Enlargement strategy 2018

With a resolute tone and a sense of urgency, the European Commission's 2018 enlargement strategy for the Western Balkans adopted in February 2018 set a clear direction for the region's six countries: it offered them a credible enlargement perspective and pledged enhanced EU engagement. It indicated 2025 as a possible enlargement date.

However, seizing this opportunity remained a challenge, as the aspirants must each deliver on difficult, key reforms, and solve all outstanding bilateral disputes.

Author: Velina Lilyanov

• Primary Source

EP: EPRS: At a Glance, July 2017: Russia in the Western Balkans (et al) http://www.europeansources.info/record/russia-in-the-western-balkans/

Deutsche Welle, 25.02.18: EU eyes enlargement as Jean-Claude Juncker tours Balkans (et al) http://www.europeansources.info/record/eu-eyes-enlargement-as-jean-claude-juncker-tours-balkans/

EP: EPRS: Briefing, January 2017: 2016 Enlargement package: Prospects for the Western Balkans http://www.europeansources.info/record/2016-enlargement-package-prospects-for-the-western-balkans/

Carnegie Europe: Strategc Europe, 24.04.18: The EU’s Next Stop: The Western Balkans http://carnegieeurope.eu/strategiceurope/76163?lang=en

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