EU Proposes 15-Year Probation for New Members as Enlargement Push Gains Pace
Updated
Updated · The Guardian · Oct 6
EU Proposes 15-Year Probation for New Members as Enlargement Push Gains Pace
3 articles · Updated · The Guardian · Oct 6
Summary
A 15-year probation period for new EU members would let the bloc suspend voting rights or funds if entrants breach democratic standards or loyalty obligations.
Marta Kos said the safeguard is meant to prevent another Viktor Orbán-style standoff, lowering the bar from Article 7, whose toughest sanction has never been used against Hungary or Poland.
The plan still needs member-state approval and would expire after 15 years, with Brussels arguing an unlimited regime would create first- and second-class members.
Ukraine, Moldova, Albania and Montenegro are the main enlargement frontrunners, and officials hope to open two negotiating clusters with Ukraine and Moldova next week.
The proposal sits within a broader overhaul for a possible 35-member EU, including pressure to curb national vetoes and potentially reduce the guarantee of one commissioner per country.