FX.co ★ Ten countries eyeing EU membership in 2025

Ukraine

Ukraine applied for EU membership in February 2022 and was granted candidate status in June of the same year. However, official negotiations only began in 2024. To achieve its goal, Ukraine must implement reforms in its judicial system, improve governance, and address corruption issues.

Moldova

Moldova expressed its intention to join the EU in March 2022 and soon received candidate status. Similar to Ukraine, Moldova's integration process began this year. To become part of the bloc, the country must make significant changes to its economy and legal system, as well as focus on reducing corruption.

Turkey

Turkey was one of the first countries to seek EU membership, submitting its application in 1987 and receiving candidate status in 1999. Official negotiations began in 2005, but the process has been slowed by political disagreements and EU requirements regarding legal standards.

North Macedonia

North Macedonia applied for EU membership in 2004 and received candidate status in 2005. The negotiation process, delayed by disputes with Greece, began in 2020 after the country officially changed its name. North Macedonia is now actively implementing reforms to align its internal processes with EU requirements.

Montenegro

Montenegro applied for EU membership in 2008 and was granted candidate status two years later. Since 2012, the country has been negotiating and has successfully closed several chapters covering crucial areas such as the justice system and citizens' rights protection. Montenegro could become the first Balkan country to meet all the requirements for EU membership.

Serbia

Serbia received candidate status in 2012, but progress has stalled despite the country's continued efforts to implement necessary reforms. The main obstacle remains Serbia's relations with Kosovo. The EU sees the resolution of this conflict as a crucial step towards further integration.

Albania

Albania applied for EU membership in 2009 and was granted candidate status five years later. The negotiation process began in 2020, marking the start of significant reforms in areas such as the justice system, anti-corruption measures, and the protection of civil rights. To make further progress, Albania must strengthen judicial independence, improve government transparency, and enhance media freedom.

Bosnia and Herzegovina

Bosnia and Herzegovina applied for EU membership in 2016 but only received candidate status six years later. The country is now actively working on key EU requirements, including reforming the legal system, strengthening the protection of citizens' rights, and bolstering state institutions. This brings Bosnia and Herzegovina closer to starting negotiations for further integration.

Georgia

Georgia applied for EU membership in March 2022 and was granted candidate status in the following year. The European Council supported the application, while noting the need for further reforms. Georgia must focus on strengthening democratic institutions, improving its justice system, and intensifying efforts to combat corruption in order to enter into an open dialogue with the EU.

Kosovo

Kosovo's prospects for EU integration were addressed by Brussels in 2005. However, the process has been complicated by the fact that several EU member states have not yet recognized Kosovo's independence. In 2016, Kosovo signed the Stabilization and Association Agreement with the EU and formally applied for EU membership in 2022. Key challenges for the country include legal reforms and intensifying anti-corruption measures.