EU to propose tougher, reversible entry process
The plan will be seen as an attempt to placate France
05 February, 17:28The Commission's proposal does not alter the basic legal and democratic standard that candidates from the Balkans must meet in order to qualify for accession talks to the 27-nation union.
But the draft, "Enhancing the accession process: A Credible EU perspective for the Western Balkans", calls for a "stronger political steer" from leaders inside and outside the union. A country must show its candidacy is "not moving on autopilot and must reflect an active societal choice on their part to reach and respect the highest European standards and values. "Equally, the commitment of the member states to share a common future with the Western Balkans as full members of the Union is a significant political and not simply technical undertaking." (ANSA-AFP).