European Parliament calls for swift opening of negotiating clusters with Ukraine and Moldova

In a report adopted on 11 March, Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) said EU enlargement is a strategic response to the evolving geopolitical reality and a vital investment in the EU’s security and stability.

Parliament argues the cost of non-enlargement would exceed that of new members joining the EU, risking the creation of geopolitical grey zones vulnerable to antagonistic foreign influence. MEPs called for the swift opening of negotiating clusters with Ukraine and Moldova.

Reaffirming that accession must remain merit-based and reversible, and that no country should be treated as part of a package, MEPs said there can be no shortcuts on EU values and fundamental principles. 

MEPs are calling for strengthened monitoring of reforms in candidate countries under the ‘fundamentals cluster’ and for reinforced support for pro-EU civil society actors who are committed to the necessary reforms and European values.

Rapporteur Petras Auštrevičius (Renew, Lithuania) said: “With each new member, Europe’s political and economic power has grown, delivering prosperity and security to its citizens. In light of today’s challenges, we must improve the EU integration model to better reflect the Union’s interests and the expectations of candidate countries.”

The report was adopted with 385 votes in favour, 147 against and 98 abstentions.

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