Last week, the European Commission suggested that the European Union start accession talks with Ukraine, given the country’s significant progress in aligning with the EU’s stipulated norms and standards. As a part of the 2023 Enlargement Agenda, Ukraine and Moldova have received positive evaluations for their efforts to prepare for EU membership. This news originates from the JURIST site, with details covered by Ukrainian law student, Oksana Bidnenko.
Despite the ongoing war hindrances, Ukraine’s significant reforms over the past year triggered the Commission’s recommendation. Ukraine has successfully implemented 90% of the EU-expected reforms, as mentioned in the report. Of course, the condition attached is the continuation of unfinished reforms in the future.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen mentioned that Ukraine has shown significant progress in various areas such as constitutional justice reform, an anti-corruption program, a fight against money laundering, crucial measures to control oligarchs, and new media and national minority laws.
Given Ukraine’s accomplishments, along with its ongoing reform initiatives, the Commission has suggested initiating accession negotiations. However, critical actions must be adopted by Ukraine before entering into negotiation frameworks. The Commission is planning to report on the progress of these actions to the Council by March 2024.
Moreover, Commission President von der Leyen has emphasized the historical, economic, and geopolitical benefits of enlargement, recommending that Georgia be considered a candidate country, given that a number of steps are performed.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy appreciated the European Commission’s recommendation. He noted that despite difficulties, Ukraine is progressing and expecting a political decision from the European Council in December.
However, the road towards EU membership could be lengthy. Actual membership could take years or even decades, with progress dependent on how quickly Ukraine completes its remaining reforms. Additionally, negotiations with countries like Hungary, Poland, and Slovakia, who might oppose Ukraine’s EU accession to further their interests, could further delay the process.
Another noteworthy point is the territories occupied by Russia’s proxy forces in Ukraine, Moldova, and Georgia. This raises questions about how these countries will access the EU. Ukraine is not ready to cede its territories for membership, as reported by Ukrainian MP Maria Mezentseva. The position of Moldova and Georgia on this issue remains unclear.