The recent invasion of Ukraine by Russia in 2022 has sparked a renewed push for European Union expansion, with hopes of admitting new members by 2030, according to European Council President Charles Michel. As the EU commemorates the 20th anniversary of its “Big Bang” enlargement in 2004, which added 10 countries to the bloc, Michel emphasized the need for unity in the face of geopolitical challenges.
Michel highlighted the economic progress made by the 2004 accession countries, with their GDP per capita now at 80% of the EU average, up from half in the past. The current applicants for EU membership include six Balkan countries, Ukraine, Georgia, and Moldova, with Ukraine being the largest prospective member due to its population of 40 million and significant agricultural sector.
The conflict between Russia and Ukraine has given new momentum to the EU enlargement strategy, with Michel stressing the importance of reforms and readiness for expansion by 2030. While some concerns exist about the economic implications of admitting a large country like Ukraine, Michel emphasized the potential for the EU to increase its international influence through enlargement.
As the EU navigates the complexities of potential new members and the aftermath of the Ukraine war, Michel underscored the need for special transition arrangements for Kyiv and careful consideration of Ukraine’s population and agricultural exports. The EU aims not only to grow in size but also to enhance its global impact through expansion.