EU Membership: No Second-Class Status, Says Top Official
The possibility of a tiered EU membership – where countries join without full voting rights – has been firmly rejected by the EU Ambassador to North Macedonia, Mihalis Rokas. His statement comes amid discussions sparked by Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić and recent suggestions from North Macedonian Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski regarding a potential swift-track accession for North Macedonia, even if it meant limited decision-making power.
The Debate Over Limited Membership
Rokas emphasized that current EU treaties do not allow for membership without full rights, including the right to vote and veto. Any alteration to these foundational agreements would require unanimous consent from all existing EU member states – a challenging prospect given the current political landscape.
The debate centers around a potential pathway for Western Balkan nations to join the EU more quickly, particularly in light of geopolitical shifts and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Vučić raised the idea of a membership with restricted rights, while Mickoski indicated discussions were underway regarding North Macedonia’s potential accession by 2027 under such conditions.
Rokas’s Firm Stance: Treaty Changes Required
Rokas clarified that the accession process is firmly defined within EU treaties. He stated that introducing a system of partial membership would necessitate amending these treaties, requiring unanimous agreement among all EU members. He acknowledged ongoing political discussions within the EU regarding the potential implications of accepting several new member states simultaneously, but reiterated that the current treaties remain in effect.
He stressed that North Macedonia’s primary focus should remain on continuing with necessary reforms, as this is the established path to full EU membership.
Implications for North Macedonia and the Region
The rejection of a two-tiered system throws a degree of uncertainty over North Macedonia’s hopes for a swift accession. While the government in Skopje had suggested a potential 2027 entry, even with limited powers, Rokas’s statement underscores the demand for full compliance with EU standards and the absence of shortcuts.
The situation highlights the complexities of EU enlargement and the challenges of balancing geopolitical considerations with the fundamental principles of the Union. The EU is currently navigating a period of intense debate regarding its future capacity and the integration of new members.
FAQ
Q: Can countries join the EU without voting rights?
A: No, current EU treaties do not allow for membership without full voting rights and veto power.
Q: What would it grab to change the EU treaties?
A: Unanimous agreement from all existing EU member states.
Q: What is North Macedonia’s current path to EU membership?
A: Continued implementation of reforms to meet EU standards.
Q: What was the basis for the discussion of limited membership?
A: Statements from the Serbian President and the North Macedonian Prime Minister.
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