EU Sets Up Ad Hoc Group for Montenegro's Accession Treaty, First Among Candidate States
Updated
Updated · European Western Balkans · Jun 29
EU Sets Up Ad Hoc Group for Montenegro's Accession Treaty, First Among Candidate States
3 articles · Updated · European Western Balkans · Jun 29
Summary
Montenegro became the only EU candidate country with an ad hoc working group dedicated to preparing its accession treaty, signaling that its membership process has entered a more advanced phase.
The move also positions Montenegro as a test case for how the EU can tie enlargement to stronger post-accession rule-of-law safeguards, not just pre-entry reforms.
Brussels faces a twin pressure: Russia's war in Ukraine has sharpened the geopolitical case for enlargement, while democratic backsliding inside the bloc has made member states wary of admitting new countries without clearer enforcement tools.
The report argues accession treaties should spell out triggers, assessments and possible financial consequences for rule-of-law breaches after entry, preserving full membership rights while making safeguards more predictable.
That model could reach beyond Montenegro, shaping future accessions for the Western Balkans as well as Ukraine and Moldova.
As the EU tests stricter entry rules on Montenegro, are new members destined for a future of permanently limited rights?
Beyond cutting funds, what real power will Brussels have if a new member state defies its rule of law safeguards?
Drafting Montenegro’s EU Accession Treaty: First Enlargement in 13 Years Sets New Standards and Safeguards
Overview
Montenegro has entered the decisive phase of its EU accession journey with the EU ambassadors' endorsement of an Ad Hoc Working Group to draft its Accession Treaty. This marks the first such treaty in 13 years, highlighting the significance of Montenegro's progress and the EU's renewed focus on enlargement. The treaty is being designed as a 'new-generation treaty,' aiming to incorporate modern EU standards, draw on lessons from past enlargements, and serve as a model for future accessions. This step signals a shift from preparatory reforms to the final, concrete stage of legal and institutional alignment with the EU.