Ukraine and Moldova’s EU Accession Journey: Formal Negotiations Start Soon

Ukraine and Moldova are preparing to officially start accession negotiations with the European Union (EU). The last week of June will be a turning point for these two countries. A ceremonial intergovernmental conference (IGC) in Brussels will open the doors to negotiations. This important development will take place just before Hungary takes over the Presidency of the Council of the EU.

A New Page with the EU

Ukraine and Moldova’s accession negotiations to the EU are seen as an important step for the political and economic balance on the European continent. EU leaders gave the green light for negotiations with both countries in December 2023. However, it is important to note that this approval process is only the beginning and the real challenges have yet to begin.

The negotiations require a full consensus among the current 27 members of the EU. It is a process in which each member takes into account its own domestic political and economic interests.

Meaning and Process of Negotiations

Accession negotiations with an EU candidate country are often a complex and multi-stage process. The negotiation process requires candidate countries to adopt a wide range of EU rules, from agriculture to foreign policy, from judicial reforms to economic harmonization. For Ukraine and Moldova, June will mark only the symbolic beginning of this process. In real terms, negotiations will begin with the formal opening of each chapter of EU rules. However, this could happen in 2025 at the earliest.

Expected Challenges and Previous Examples

The road to EU membership has not always been easy. For example, North Macedonia and Albania were approved to start negotiations in 2020, but had to wait another two years for concrete steps to be taken. In fact, this process has not yet seen the opening or closing of any chapters. This was due to the fact that both countries faced various bilateral issues and domestic political conflicts. Ukraine and Moldova may face similar challenges.

Conclusion and Future Prospects

At the end of June, Ukraine and Moldova will start formal negotiations with the EU. This is a historic moment for both countries and an important milestone in their European journey. However, it is important to remember that this process will be long and complex. Both Ukraine and Moldova need to make detailed preparations and take strategic steps to overcome the challenges of EU accession. This step towards integration with the European Union will be decisive for the future of both countries. It is hoped that this process will cement both countries’ place in Europe and give them a greater voice in the international arena.