BAKU, Azerbaijan, September 3. EU enlargement in the Western Balkans shows uneven progress, with each of the six countries (WB6) facing distinct challenges and timelines, Trend reports citing the latest Europe Monthly Outlook by BMI - a Fitch Solutions Company.
Albania and Montenegro are projected to join the EU by 2034, benefiting from steady negotiation progress and strong public support, although domestic political risks could still pose obstacles.
Serbia’s EU accession talks remain stalled, with limited progress expected amid declining public support, while North Macedonia faces significant political hurdles, including lack of majority for necessary constitutional amendments.
Bosnia and Herzegovina’s EU prospects remain distant, with political deadlock and exceptionally high risks delaying any accession process.
BMI notes that these varied trajectories leave the Western Balkans as a “hole in the EU patchwork,” highlighting ongoing regional disparities in integration.
