EU must fast-track expansion to guarantee unity, says Commissioner Marta Kos

The European Union must accelerate enlargement to secure its unity and stability, EU Enlargement Commissioner Marta Kos has warned. Speaking at the Munich Security Conference, Kos stressed that bringing candidate countries into the bloc is no longer just an ambition—it’s a necessity.

“Enlargement isn’t just policy—it’s our strongest security guarantee,” Kos declared. “External forces want to divide us, but integration keeps us strong.”

The EU, not the US, holds the key

Kos made it clear: the EU drives expansion, not the US.

“Nations want to join the EU, not the US,” she said. “Because we offer stability, governance, and economic opportunity.”

Politics slowing progress

Despite technical readiness, political roadblocks remain. Any expansion move needs unanimous approval from all EU member states—often a tough sell.

“We can close accession talks with Montenegro and Albania by 2026 or 2027, but without political will, nothing moves,” Kos admitted.

While some argue over merit-based accession and geopolitical strategy, Kos insisted that reform, anti-corruption efforts, and integration must go hand in hand.

Urgent action needed

Kos called for swift discussions among EU members to clear the path for candidate countries. With Ukraine’s bid and the Western Balkans’ hopes hanging in the balance, the EU must act now.

“If we take this seriously, we can do much more. Unity is at stake,” Kos concluded