EU eyes ‘safeguards’ to keep bloc workable if it gets bigger

The European Commission has proposed new safeguards to keep the European Union (EU) manageable if it continues to expand. The proposal, presented by Brussels, addresses concerns that admitting new members, particularly Ukraine, could strain the EU budget and make the bloc harder to manage. Russia's 2022 invasion of Ukraine has heightened interest in expanding the EU, with Ukraine and Moldova among the four front-running countries seeking membership.

EU Commissioner Marta Kos stated that while enlargement is a strategic priority, there are significant risks that must be addressed. These risks include potential backsliding on democracy and hoovering up key resources by newcomers. To alleviate these concerns, the EU executive set out a series of safeguards designed to ensure that new members adhere to democratic standards and do not overly burden the EU's budget.

The proposal includes special arrangements to limit financial support and restrict exports of certain products from Ukraine, such as wheat. Moreover, the EU is seeking to learn from Hungary's past blockages under former leader Viktor Orban by introducing safeguards against future disruptions. These safeguards will remain in place for 15 years after countries join, aiming to prevent them from hindering the EU's functioning or reversing the rule of law.

Additionally, Brussels wants new countries to commit to not blocking others from joining the EU. While most changes would apply to new entrants starting with Montenegro, the commission suggests that current members should switch from requiring unanimity to majority approval in areas like foreign policy. This move would reduce the chances of countries using their vetoes to stifle the system, although its adoption is unlikely due to the reluctance of multiple member states to relinquish their veto power.

The EU leaders will discuss these proposals at a summit next week, with the hope of signaling their continued openness to enlargement. Although Ukraine is expected to advance to two new areas of negotiations, the country still faces a lengthy journey of reforms before achieving full membership.