EU could deny new member states veto rights as bloc pushes for enlargement

The European Union is exploring significant changes to its decision-making processes to accommodate potential new members, particularly from the Western Balkans and Moldova. A key proposal under consideration by the European Commission involves temporarily suspending veto rights for future member states upon their accession. This measure aims to make the politically sensitive process of EU enlargement more palatable by preventing individual nations from unilaterally blocking crucial decisions, such as those concerning foreign policy or taxation.

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innovative solutions

The idea has gained traction following the challenging experience with Hungary, whose government under Viktor Orbán frequently used its veto power to obstruct key EU initiatives, including a substantial loan package for Ukraine. EU sources indicate that a time-limited ban on veto powers could be integrated into accession treaties, potentially serving as a template for other candidate countries. However, officials acknowledge this safeguard is legally complex and must be temporary to avoid creating a tiered system of EU membership.

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geopolitical necessity

In parallel, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has advocated for "innovative solutions" to expedite the accession of Western Balkan nations, deeming enlargement a "geopolitical necessity." Merz also suggested an "associate membership" for Ukraine, which would grant it participation in EU meetings and representation in bloc institutions without voting rights. He argued this would acknowledge Ukraine's wartime situation and aid peace talks.

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associate membership

However, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has firmly rejected the notion of associate membership, asserting that Ukraine's rightful place in the EU must be "complete – full and equal." The push for enlargement has been revitalized since Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, with the European Commission setting a target for admitting new members by 2030. Montenegro and Albania are seen as frontrunners, with Moldova also making rapid progress, while Ukraine's potential membership is viewed through the lens of security guarantees.

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decisive step on Ukraine’s path to full membership