EU looks at new membership model

The European Union is considering a new way for countries to move closer to the bloc before becoming full members.

EU leaders are expected to discuss the idea in October.

Under the plans, countries waiting to join could gain access to parts of the EU before full membership.

The changes would matter most for the Western Balkans and Ukraine.

Diplomats say the next EU expansion is unlikely to follow the old model.

The new approach would let countries move closer to the EU step by step while continuing reforms.