Preparing for a wider European Union

According to the Commission, the EU can take in more countries within the existing Treaty and budgetary framework.[1] The Commission also says the Union budget can accommodate new Member States while continuing to finance the Union's existing priorities.[1]Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said that "Enlargement of our Union is a geopolitical imperative."[2]The Commission's enlargement department reports that the Commission will continue to advocate the use of passerelle clauses to move from unanimity to qualified majority voting in key areas such as sanctions, tax fraud and fiscal measures in energy policy.[2] The same source says the Commission is also suggesting qualified majority voting for the opening of the negotiating clusters and other intermediary decisions in accession negotiations[2].The Commission states that the measures propose stronger safeguards for future accession treaties so that commitments made during negotiations continue to be respected after accession.[1] It adds that transitional arrangements could also be used where needed, including for the free movement of workers and services, agriculture[1] and funding.EUbusiness reports that Enlargement Commissioner Marta Kos said "we propose to consider targeted arrangements for the integration of Ukraine's agricultural sector"[3].According to the Commission, as part of the 2026 Enlargement package, the Commission will present indicative roadmaps for Montenegro, Albania, Moldova and Ukraine, provided they maintain reform momentum.[2]EUbusiness reports that the package will feed into strategic discussion among Member States on enlargement and reforms, including at the European Council in October.[3]