European Commission Proposes Rule Changes to Prepare EU for New Members Including Ukraine

Major Reform Package Adopted

The European Commission has adopted a package of proposals to amend key EU rules ahead of the next enlargement round. The changes are designed to prepare the bloc for admitting new members, including Ukraine, Moldova, and western Balkan candidate states. EU Enlargement Commissioner Marta Kos presented the proposals in Strasbourg on Tuesday.

Key Areas of Reform

Commissioner Kos outlined several areas where changes are needed. These include strengthening safeguards to prevent new members from backsliding on rule of law and fundamental values, including mechanisms to withhold funding or restrict voting rights. She also proposed targeted approaches for integrating Ukraine's agricultural sector, which presents unique challenges given its scale.

The package also addresses how EU institutions can be made more compact and able to make decisions faster in a larger union. Gradual integration of candidate states is proposed as another key element.

Timeline and Next Steps

The Commission aims to have the proposals endorsed at the EU leaders level by the end of 2026. A high-level discussion is scheduled for the European Council meeting on 15-16 October. The Commission intends to develop legislative proposals for consideration by national capitals after the Council gives its mandate.

Ukraine's Path to Membership

The proposals signal a significant step in preparations for Ukraine's potential EU membership. Alongside Ukraine, Montenegro, Moldova, and Albania are identified as the front-runners in the accession process and may receive roadmaps to membership. The Commission expressed hope that more clarity on specific approaches would emerge within weeks.