Europe's Next Chapter: The Race to EU Membership

The European Commission has detailed progress in EU membership bids. Countries like Ukraine, Moldova, and others are on the path to accession, facing various challenges. EU accession talks can last decades, as seen with Turkey and others. Key reforms and negotiations continue to shape this geopolitical journey.

The European Commission, on Wednesday, released its report on the progress of countries aspiring to join the European Union. This report is a crucial checkpoint for candidates working toward meeting EU criteria for membership.

While EU accession talks can extend over a decade or more, several countries are actively pursuing membership. These nations, including Ukraine and Moldova, are endeavoring to meet the Union's stringent requirements. Ukraine was granted candidate status in June 2022 just months after the Russian invasion, while Moldova began formal discussions in 2024.

Meanwhile, Turkey's accession talks remain frozen due to ongoing human rights and governance concerns. Other nations like North Macedonia and Montenegro have made significant strides, with many negotiating chapters already opened or provisionally completed. However, political and historical disputes continue to complicate the process in the region.

(With inputs from agencies.)