Brussels – The message from the European Commission to candidate countries for EU membership is clear: we are prepared to welcome new member states in the coming years, provided they meet the necessary conditions, says the president of the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC), Oliver Ropke.
– This has been a longstanding commitment of the European Union. However, over recent years, this promise has not been fulfilled by either side. We now have a unique opportunity for enlargement that we must seize, Ropke stated in an interview with ENR, which includes MIA and 24 other European news agencies.
According to Ropke, the Committee prioritizes enlargement and advocates for the active engagement of civil society representatives from candidate countries in the reform processes necessary for membership based on merit.
– This approach is widely accepted. What we need now is strong political will. I see that emerging, and I must emphasize that the EESC fully supports this vision, Ropke underscores.
To achieve this objective, Ropke explains that the EESC has initiated involvement from candidates for enlargement, as well as specific bodies like joint advisory committees, which facilitate structured cooperation among social partners, civil society, and governments. These bodies monitor the situation and provide recommendations for the enlargement process.
– I believe our efforts have led to tangible improvements, adds Ropke. (September 18, 2025)
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