The European Network of National Human Rights Institutions (ENNHRI) published an analysis on Monday 13 July arguing that the rule of law, civic space and democracy continue to deteriorate in the 10 candidate countries applying to join the European Union.
The report, which examines the situation in Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Georgia, Kosovo, Moldova, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Serbia, Türkiye and Ukraine, notes uneven progress as regards the independence and effectiveness of national human rights institutions.
It also identifies difficulties linked to appointment procedures, financial resources and follow-up to their recommendations.
In addition, the document reports a shrinking civic space, reflected in legal and administrative restrictions, acts of intimidation, SLAPPs and a rise in disinformation, compounded by violations of the rights of children, persons with disabilities, Roma communities and persons deprived of their liberty.
The organisation also points to difficulties affecting judicial systems.
These reports complement ENNHRI’s 2026 report on the rule of law in the EU (https://aeur.eu/f/mwx ).
The regional analysis and all country reports: https://aeur.eu/f/mww (Original version in French by Nithya Paquiry)