Young European Ambassadors take part in European Commission’s first EU Enlargement Forum

Nine Young European Ambassadors (YEAs) took part in the European Commission’s first EU Enlargement Forum 2025, ‘Completing the Union, Securing Our Future’, held in Brussels today. 

The event brought together high-level leaders, civil society, and youth to discuss the way towards a larger and stronger Union.

The Forum is hosted by EU Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kos and attended by High Representative/Vice-President, Kaja Kallas, President of the European Council, António Costa, as well the Prime Ministers of Moldova and Montenegro, among others.

Discussions focus on Europe’s geopolitical priorities, the expectations of citizens, and the measures needed to strengthen both the Union’s capacity to welcome new members and partners’ preparedness to join. 

The Forum will also provide an opportunity to discuss this year’s Enlargement package and the progress achieved by the enlargement partners over the past twelve months.

“Enlargement is a journey that matters to all of us. Because we all share the same continent, history, culture and challenges. We see the passion of young people – in candidate countries as well as in member states – to live in one European Union,” European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said in her video message. “They want to seize the opportunities and enjoy the freedoms that membership provides. They want to live in a stronger, prosperous and united Europe. Because Europe is more than a Union – it is our home.”

The YEAs joined the Forum to hear firsthand how decision-makers view the future of the European family. 

“It is inspiring to see that enlargement is increasingly recognised as a shared responsibility, where candidate countries are viewed as partners. The discussions clearly show that completing the Union by integrating candidate countries is fundamental to safeguarding security, democratic values, and long-term peace on our continent,” said Daria Hrosul, a Young European Ambassador from Ukraine. “Unity is the most powerful tool against authoritarian regimes, and only through collective security Europe will remain strong and resilient.”

Flavio Viperini, a YEA from Italy and Germany, said that he was representing young Europeans at the Forum, who believe in a future where more countries can join our community of democracy, peace, and cooperation.

“Enlargement means opening doors for new generations. It creates more opportunities to travel, study, work, and build friendships across borders. A larger EU also strengthens our shared voice in Europe and helps us overcome challenges together,” Viperini said.

The Young European Ambassadors (YEAs) initiative brings together socially engaged youth from the six Eastern Partner countries, the European Union and the United Kingdom to foster dialogue and to raise awareness about the EU and its cooperation with its Eastern partner countries.

Find out more

Message by President von der Leyen at the EU Enlargement Forum

EU Enlargement Forum webpage