European Union Enlargement I

Art. 49. Treaty on EU

any European country may apply for membership must respects the principles of liberty, democracy, human rights and fundamental freedoms, and the rule of law. stable institutions guaranteeing democracy, the rule of law, human rights and respect for and protection of minorities.

Political

functioning market economy

requirements for joining

Economic criteria by the European Council

capacity to cope with competition and market forces in the EU. to take on the obligations of membership

The capacity

to adhere to the objectives of political, economic and monetary union. the

Adoption

entire

body

of

European legislation

effective implementation through appropriate administrative and judicial structures.

of

A country submits an application for membership to the Council The Commission assesses the applicant’ s ability to meet the conditions for membership

Steps to adhesion

Enlargement

It must deliver a positive opinion The Council unanimously has to agree a negotiating mandate negotiations are formally opened between the candidate and all the Member States

agreements that set out rights and obligations

Pre-accession strategy

Stabilization and Association Agreements in the case of the Western Balkan countries

stabilization and a swift transition to a market economy promotion of regional cooperation prospect of EU accession

Accession or European Partnerships special cooperation mechanisms EU financial assistance Croatia candidates

Turkey Republic of Macedonia Albania

New members

Bosnia and Herzegovina potential candidates (Thessaloniki Agenda)

Montenegro Serbia Kosovo (under UN Security Council Resolution 1244)

EU Enlargement.mmap - 04/12/2008 -