In a non-paper dated Wednesday 7 October and seen by Agence Europe, the three countries of the Slavkov format (Austria, the Czech Republic, and Slovakia) argue for enlargement based on the “gradual integration [and a] systematic merit-based approach” of applicable populations, as well as “better communication”. The position was set out following a ministerial meeting held in Vienna on 29 September, attended by several Western Balkan candidate countries.
There are overlaps between several proposals put forward in the three Member States’ document, circulated ahead of the next General Affairs Council, and those presented by the European Commission on Tuesday 6 October in Strasbourg (see EUROPE 13953/1). These include the gradual integration of candidate countries into certain EU programmes, such as Horizon Europe and Erasmus+, and certain European agencies such as Frontex. “Such an approach would provide tangible benefits to citizens while safeguarding the integrity of the Union and ensuring equal treatment throughout the accession process”. In particular, signatories highlight the positive role of the growth plan for the Western Balkans, which brings candidate countries closer to the EU by implementing reforms and the Community acquis.
On the functioning of the EU, the Slavkov non-paper, much like the communication presented by the Commission earlier this week, discusses adapting the decision-making process. The non-paper proposes streamlining certain technical decisions in the EU Council, while the Commission suggests examining the activation of passerelle clauses. The Slavkov countries also want to maintain the momentum of the negotiations and encourage direct bilateral discussions, to prevent disputes from holding up progress in the accession process, as has happened between Montenegro and Croatia and between North Macedonia and Bulgaria.
Another point emphasised by the signatories is the importance of better communication with people in candidate countries, particularly young people. “Young people should become a central pillar of gradual integration [...] Expanding opportunities through Erasmus+ and the European Solidarity Corps, vocational education and training, research cooperation, traineeships within EU institutions and professional exchange programmes”, the three Member States stress. They call on European institutions to “Strengthen and mainstream communication activities on enlargement, making its benefits more visible and accessible, particularly for young people and the local community”. (Original version in French by Louis Dubar)