The European Commission is proposing new safeguards to protect the EU from potential democratic backsliding and decision-vetoing by future member states. The measures aim to ensure stability and prevent new members from undermining the bloc's structures as it considers expansion.
The proposed safeguards reflect the EU's efforts to manage the complexities of expansion, aiming to maintain internal cohesion and decision-making efficiency as it considers admitting new members.
The European Commission is developing new safeguards to address potential challenges posed by the EU's expansion, according to a draft document seen by Reuters. As countries like Montenegro, Albania, Ukraine, and Moldova advance in their accession bids, the bloc is reviewing its rules to mitigate risks associated with new members potentially weakening democratic structures or obstructing decisions.
The draft document, expected to be part of a package presented next week, outlines proposals aimed at ensuring stability and preventing abrupt policy shifts. Some EU governments have expressed concerns about democratic backsliding and foreign policy changes by new members, citing difficulties experienced with Hungary under Viktor Orban. There is also a desire among some member states to shield existing businesses and citizens from potential disruptions.
Key proposals include a "temporary political commitment" where a new member would agree not to oppose consensus decisions for a limited period. Additionally, a safeguard clause is under consideration that would permit existing member states to suspend a new member's rights, including voting rights, through a qualified majority vote of 15 members representing 65% of the bloc's population. New accession treaties might also incorporate time-limited safeguards in sectors like the free movement of workers and agriculture.
The Commission also reiterated its push for greater use of qualified-majority voting on issues such as sanctions, an area where Hungary has previously used its veto power. The executive arm of the EU noted that increased qualified-majority voting should be accompanied by safety measures for essential national interests. Furthermore, the document advocates for a more systematic approach to gradually integrate future members into EU programs, including defense, energy, and transport, before their formal accession.
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