Von der Leyen to Present New EU Approach in Skopje: 'Reforms Before Enlargement and Policy Reviews'
The European Commission president arrives in Skopje on September 30 to present, at a College of Commissioners meeting, a new strategic document allowing candidate countries phased access to certain EU programs before full membership.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen arrives in Skopje on September 30 as part of a three-day tour of the Western Balkans. At a College of Commissioners meeting held in the Macedonian capital, the Commission will unveil a new strategic document titled "Reforms Before Enlargement and Policy Reviews."
The document redefines the path for candidate countries — from application through negotiations to membership and the first years after accession — with one key innovation: gradual integration that gives candidates access to certain EU programs and policies even before full membership. Notably, the document will not carry legally binding force for the member states implementing it, serving instead as guidance.
While some member states had pushed for new members to lack full voting rights during an initial period, the Commission rejected that proposal, opting instead for transitional periods and special provisions written into accession agreements. Analysts will be watching the visit closely to see whether Brussels is finally ready to help unblock the vetoes that have stalled the Balkans and speed up North Macedonia's path toward the EU.
MKNews Hub · Macedonia · September 29, 2026
