This renewed urgency has led to progress in accession negotiations for countries like Albania and North Macedonia.

Ursula von der Leyen recently highlighted that the security of Europe is closely tied to the enlargement of the EU.

In the Western Balkans, discussions about gradual integration are evolving, moving beyond historical grievances regarding the EU's treatment of the region.

Despite being promised EU membership two decades ago, the six Western Balkan countries have seen minimal progress in their accession journey.

Bosnia and Herzegovina has officially been recognized as an EU candidate, and the EU has launched a €6 billion growth plan aimed at the region.

This growth plan ties European investments to necessary reforms in the Balkan countries, potentially granting them funding comparable to full EU members.

While Albania, Montenegro, and North Macedonia are NATO members, Bosnia and Kosovo continue to depend on NATO for security.

Serbia's close ties with Moscow present challenges for its EU accession bid, particularly in light of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

To overcome resistance from member states like Hungary, Bulgaria, and Cyprus, building a critical mass in favor of enlargement is essential.

There is a growing call for the next EU commissioner for enlargement to enhance ambitions for integration, including the possibility of Schengen area inclusion.

As the EU prepares for negotiations on its 2028-2034 budget, the financial implications of including new members must be carefully considered.

The recent invasion of Ukraine has shifted the European Union's focus towards expansion, marking a strategic priority after years of stagnation.