The European Union has changed its approach to enlargement, focusing on defence and security. Economic benefits are no longer the main argument for candidate countries.
The EU's new approach to enlargement
The European Union has changed its strategy to attract new members. The main emphasis is now not on economic advantages, but on defence and security issues.
Candidate countries, including Ukraine and the Western Balkans, increasingly see EU membership as a guarantee of protection from external threats. This is due to increased security risks in the region and uncertainty about US support.
Reasons for changing the strategy
The key factor behind the change in approach was the growing threat from Russia and the war in Ukraine. EU countries are seeking to strengthen common defence and reduce dependence on US security guarantees.
The EU used to attract new members with economic benefits, such as access to the common market and financial support. Now the main argument is common security, military cooperation and protection from aggression.
Context.
The change in the approach to EU enlargement has taken place against the backdrop of the deteriorating geopolitical situation in Europe. Candidate countries increasingly value the security guarantees that the EU can provide, not just economic incentives.
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