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Future of the EU

Č芚ŽžEnlargement is one of the EU's most powerful policy tools, as recent history shows that the pull of the EU and the desire to become EU member states has helped to transform Central and Eastern Europe into modern, well-functioning democracies. Enlargement is a carefully managed process which helps the transformation of the countries involved, extending peace, stability, prosperity, democracy, human rights and the rule of law across Europe.

With each enlargement, cultural and linguistic diversity are increased, which is one of the special features of the EU. The European Union remains open to all European countries with a democratic system, a market economy, and the administrative facilities to fulfil the obligations and profit from the advantages of EU membership.

 

  • EU candidate countries
    In October 2005, even before the accession of Bulgaria and Romania to the EU, official accession negotiations with two other candidate countries, Turkey and Croatia, were opened. In December 2005, EU leaders officially accepted the membership application submitted in March by the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, but the date for the start of official negotiations has yet to be set.

  • Potential EU candidate countries
    The EU is currently looking into the options of new enlargement in the Western Balkans which might include Bosnia and Herzegovina, Serbia, Montenegro and Albania. The EU is confident that these countries will join the EU when ready.

 

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Date: 28.12.2007