FINNISH EU PRESIDENCY AND THE ENLARGEMENT IN THE WESTERN BALKANS

Abstract

Enlargement is one of the flagship policies of the European Union. The EU has been awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for its transformative power to create peace and stability, and these are still in great demand in the Western Balkans. The six Western Balkan countries have aspired to become EU members for about 25 years, but the work has not been completed. A realistic accession path must be laid out for each of the WB countries. The WB countries face individual challenges in their development and with the EU. Windows of opportunity, like the recent developments in Macedonia, must be recognized and made use of. The EU Commission strategy for the Western Balkans from 2018 is a good start. Finland will be the EU Chair on the second half of 2019. Finland should be prepared to pay attention to EU enlargement in the Western Balkans, and this should be reflected in the national program for presidency.