EU Enlargement Discourse in Slovakia: Supporting It, but Better Let’s Not Talk About It
Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022 has reinvigorated enlargement discussions in most European member states. Governments now see enlargement policy as an instrument for effectively responding to the evolving geopolitical backdrop and strengthening the EU in its immediate neighbourhood.
It has also influenced discussions about EU integration in Slovakia. Experts and officials alike have underscored the significance of Ukraine’s future EU membership, especially its potential impact on eastern regions of Slovakia. However, at the Slovak government level, structured and strategic discussions related to future enlargement (and its impact) are currently somewhat limited.
While there is no real ongoing dialogue between government elites and the expert community on enlargement at the moment, some recommendations can be advanced to ensure that Slovakia is adequately prepared for and a participant in the EU’s inevitable internal reform and future enlargement processes.
- Prepare for enlargement
- Support Ukraine’s victory
- Strengthen the economic development and enlargement nexus narrative
- Prioritise Ukraine’s EU membership
- Shift towards strategic funds
Read more in the policy brief below.
*The views expressed are of the author alone and do not necessarily represent the opinions of GLOBSEC or Open Society Foundation
