**European Union Enlargement Remains Merit-Based**
The European Union’s (EU) enlargement process is still based on merit, not politics. This means that countries must meet certain requirements before joining the EU.
European Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kos made this clear at a meeting of the European Parliament‘s Committee on Foreign Affairs. She said that if Western Balkan countries make an effort, one to three could become EU members by the end of the decade. Montenegro and Albania are first in line, followed possibly by Serbia.
**Requirements Remain the Same**
The process of new members joining has changed over the past five years. However, the requirements for joining the EU remain the same: countries must have a strong rule of law, democracy, and respect for fundamental values.
Kos emphasized that there will be no special treatment or “geopolitical discounts” for countries that are not ready to meet these requirements. Instead, candidate countries need to undertake necessary reforms.
**Progress Expected**
The commissioner is optimistic about the progress that can be made during the Polish presidency of the EU. She expects this to be more than the past ten years and requires regular meetings between the EU and candidate countries.
Kos also announced her first trip to the region as Commissioner for Enlargement, where she will celebrate Montenegro’s achievements in the integration process.
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