German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has called for Western Balkan countries to accelerate their European Union accession. Speaking at a summit of regional leaders in Montenegro, Merz pledged Germany’s support but stressed that candidate countries must continue with reforms and demonstrate the political will to meet EU membership conditions.
The summit took place on Thursday, 22 October 2026, with officials from Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo, Montenegro, North Macedonia, and Serbia attending. These nations comprise the Western Balkans group currently seeking greater integration with European structures.
Merz Pledges German Support
“We want you to join the EU,” Merz told the regional leaders. He added that they can count on the support of Germany, as well as his personal backing.
However, the Chancellor emphasized that EU enlargement cannot depend solely on political declarations from member states. Candidate countries must implement necessary changes and prove that they are prepared to meet the commitments and rules that come with membership.
The accession process involves extensive negotiations and reforms in areas such as the rule of law, public administration, economic policy, and aligning national legislation with EU law. Admission of a new member ultimately requires approval from all EU member states under enlargement rules.
Montenegro Leads Accession Progress
Montenegro is currently the region’s front-runner in the accession process. According to current expectations, it could complete negotiations on joining the EU as early as 2027. This would mark a significant milestone, making it the first Western Balkan country to conclude accession talks in the current round of enlargement.
However, closing negotiations does not automatically guarantee membership. Formal procedures must follow, including approval and ratification of the accession treaty in line with EU rules and national legislations.
Differences between countries in the region remain substantial. Each is moving at its own pace and must fulfill the set criteria. The duration of the process depends both on concrete progress and political decisions at the national and European levels.
EU Enlargement Also a Strategic Issue
The summit in Montenegro forms part of the so-called Berlin Process, launched in 2014 to enhance cooperation and European integration among Western Balkan states.
EU enlargement carries not only economic, but also security and geopolitical significance. The Union aims to strengthen stability in its neighborhood, develop trade relations, and foster reforms to improve the functioning of state institutions in candidate countries.
The European Union also emphasizes that the accession process must remain based on actual achievements. Candidates can only advance if they fulfill the required conditions. Meanwhile, member states must also consider how European institutions will prepare for possible new members.
Enlargement remains a key part of the debate about the future of Europe. Merz’s statements suggest support for faster progress, but the ultimate timing of each country’s accession will depend on negotiations and meeting all necessary criteria.
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This article was translated from the original Slovak version with the assistance of AI.
