EU Countries Reluctant to Accept New Members, Fearing Loss of Support

Moscow (ANTARA) - Several European Union countries are reportedly reluctant to accept new members because they fear triggering public reactions that could strengthen extreme right-wing parties, according to a Politico report on Tuesday (14/4) citing diplomats and European officials.

European governments are said to be anxious that leaders raising the issue of EU enlargement risk losing political support.

Some countries are also concerned that old debates will resurface, particularly regarding low-wage workers who could potentially replace higher-paid workers in Western Europe.

These concerns recall discussions that arose before Poland joined in 2004.

This situation is considered highly relevant to France, where law requires a referendum to approve new members.

A referendum on prospective EU members is feared to boost the chances of victory for right-wing populist leader Jordan Bardella in the 2027 presidential election.

Meanwhile, Germany, the Netherlands, and Italy emphasise that accepting new members must be based on proven implementation of reforms, without exceptions on geopolitical grounds.

The enlargement issue was actually scheduled to be discussed at the EU summit in Cyprus, but it is now considered unlikely to happen given the differences in views among European leaders.

In March, Politico also reported that the EU will face difficulties convincing current member states to accept poorer countries like Ukraine, which is estimated to receive more funds than it contributes.

If those countries join, they will also demand a share of the budget, potentially leading to smaller support for long-standing member states.

Candidate status and the start of negotiations do not guarantee EU membership. Turkey has been a candidate since 1999, North Macedonia since 2005, Montenegro since 2010, and Serbia since 2012.

Croatia, the last country to join the EU, officially became a member in 2013 after a 10-year process.