The European Commission has reiterated its readiness to prepare an opinion on Kosovo’s application for membership in the European Union.
The Commission confirmed this position on Wednesday, November 4, the same day it published its Progress Reports on countries involved in the EU enlargement process.
In its report on Kosovo, the Commission stated that it stands ready to prepare an opinion on Kosovo’s membership application if requested to do so by the Council of the European Union, which represents the member states.
Kosovo’s application for EU membership, submitted in December 2022, remains stalled and has not been forwarded to the European Commission for assessment due to the lack of a decision by EU member states to refer it to the Commission.
The report assesses that Kosovo’s reform process on its path towards EU membership has stalled during the prolonged institutional crisis. However, it highlights progress in combating serious and organised crime, as well as Kosovo’s full alignment with the EU’s Common Foreign and Security Policy.
Nevertheless, concerns have been raised regarding the functioning of the judicial system and the protection of fundamental rights.
The Commission also notes that, following the transfer of local governance in northern Kosovo, it lifted the measures imposed on the country, resumed engagement through the Stabilisation and Association Process Dialogue, and continued providing financial assistance.
In conclusion, Brussels calls on Kosovo to accelerate reforms and implement all obligations arising from the EU-facilitated Dialogue, which it considers an integral part of the country’s European perspective.
