Two new countries are expected to join the European Union soon.

Montenegro is on track to become the 28th member state of the European Union in 2028, European Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kos confirmed on Wednesday. Albania could join in 2029.

The Commissioner presented the traditional “enlargement package”, which provides an overview of the progress of the accession procedures of the various candidate countries.

Since the process is based on the principle of merit, candidate countries must undertake reforms to comply with European standards. The deadlines set by the Commission are based on the current pace of reforms in Montenegro and Albania. Both countries will therefore need to maintain this pace to hope to accession by the announced dates. If the process unfolds as planned, Montenegro's accession treaty could be signed in June 2027.

Ukraine and Moldova are still far from joining

Regarding Moldova and Ukraine, the European Commission does not yet wish to put forward a provisional timetable. While both countries have made significant progress, they still have to meet numerous requirements. Ukraine, in particular, must implement major reforms in the areas of justice, democratic institutions, public administration, and minority rights, the Commission believes.

Kyiv aims to conclude accession negotiations with the EU by the end of next year. This objective is considered “ambitious.” To achieve this, Ukraine will have to “significantly accelerate the pace of reforms,” a senior European official stated, adding that the Commission stands “ready to support this process.”

Ten (potentially) candidate countries

In total, ten candidate and potential candidate countries are currently engaged in the accession process. Besides the four leading countries, the report also assesses Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo, North Macedonia, Serbia, Georgia, and Turkey. Progress in these countries remains highly uneven, marked by political gridlock and democratic backsliding. In Georgia and Turkey, negotiations are at a standstill.