Enlargement strategy 2010 and assessments of the progress toward EU membership by Croatia, Iceland, Turkey, the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, Serbia and Kosovo.
Enlargement strategy 2010 and assessments of the progress toward EU membership by Croatia, Iceland, Turkey, the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, Serbia and Kosovo.
Further enlargement remains a political priority for the EU and its 27 member countries. Continued growth will strengthen Europe's security, peace, economic growth and political clout.
The 2010 report on enlargement strategy, covering the Western Balkans, Iceland and Turkey, assesses the current state of play and how to assist the candidates in achieving the reforms needed for accession.
The EU allocated €11.6bn for 2007–13 to support the preparation process. Benefits already include free access to the EU's single market for most exports – a crucial lifeline for countries struggling to recover from the effects of the global economic crisis.
Some key challenges remain, like improving legal standards, public administration, freedom of expression and conditions for socially excluded groups.
The countries formed after the break–up of Yugoslavia also need to resolve issues stemming from the conflicts that still beset them.
The commission recommends the EU begin talks with Montenegro and give it candidate status, if it makes further progress. Talks may also begin with Albania, but only if progress is made in a number of key areas.
Meanwhile, Croatia is entering the final phase of accession but still needs to meet standards on judicial independence and fundamental rights.
The former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia awaits a decision from EU governments on whether to open membership talks.
Serbia applied for EU membership in December 2009. EU governments asked the commission last month to submit an opinion about the application.
Kosovo, a potential candidate, has not applied for membership but is taking preliminary steps. Bosnia and Herzegovina is at the same stage. However, internal political disputes continue to block necessary reforms.
Meanwhile, Turkey is revising its constitution to meet the EU's standards and also must resolve its dispute over Cyprus.
Iceland, which opened accession talks with the EU this year, has the advantage of being a member of the European Economic Area and the border–free Schengen travel agreement.