EU Grants Candidate Status to Ukraine and Moldova

On June 23, 2022, the European Union (EU) made a historic decision to grant candidate status to Ukraine and Moldova. This marked a significant expansion move, representing the EU’s largest since the inclusion of Eastern European countries in 2004. The decision occurred amidst the backdrop of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, following the Russian invasion on February 24, 2022.

Context and Background

The Path to EU Candidacy

The road to EU candidacy for Ukraine and Moldova involved multiple steps, reflecting the European bloc’s strategic interest in stabilizing and democratically transforming its eastern neighbors:

• Ukraine’s Geopolitical Position: Since the 2014 Euromaidan protests, Ukraine has oriented itself more significantly towards European integration, distancing itself from Russian influence. The Russian annexation of Crimea and ongoing conflict in the eastern regions of Donbas exacerbated these efforts.

• Moldova’s European Aspirations: Moldova, too, had been gradually aligning with EU policies, focusing on democracy, human rights, and market economy reforms, despite internal political challenges and the unresolved Transnistria issue.

Russian Invasion of Ukraine

The Russian military aggression against Ukraine reinvigorated discussions on European security and the EU’s role in safeguarding democratic values. It highlighted the urgency for the EU to support these countries politically and economically against external pressures, particularly from Russia.

The EU Decision

Political and Symbolic Significance

The granting of candidate status to both Ukraine and Moldova was a powerful declaration of support from the EU, symbolizing solidarity amidst Russia’s aggressive maneuvers. It serves as:

• Acknowledgment of Reform Efforts: Recognizing the reforms undertaken by Ukraine and Moldova to align more closely with European democratic norms and policies.

• Commitment to Long-Term Integration: Sending a clear signal of commitment towards deeper political, economic, and eventually, security integrations into the European community for these nations.

Immediate Implications

The decision, while largely symbolic at the outset, sets these nations on a path toward full EU membership, contingent upon meeting the stringent Copenhagen criteria, which include stable institutions guaranteeing democracy, a functioning market economy, and the adoption of the EU acquis.

Consequences and Future Prospects

Regional Stability and European Security

This move underscored the EU’s strategic interest in fostering a stable and prosperous Eastern Europe. It acts as a deterrent against external aggressions by affirming that the future of these countries lies within the European mainstream.

Economic and Political Reforms

Ukraine and Moldova are expected to continue expanding and deepening their reforms, tackling corruption, strengthening democratic institutions, and enhancing their economic environments as they advance through the stages of EU integration.

Broader Implications for Enlargement Policy

The decision also signifies a potential shift in EU enlargement policy, placing greater emphasis on geopolitical considerations and strategic interests, especially in light of complex global challenges.

The June 23, 2022 decision illustrates the EU’s commitment to transforming its eastern frontier into a region of stability and prosperity, capable of withstanding external threats and contributing to the overall strength of Europe.