Local and regional leaders across Europe reaffirmed their commitment to EU enlargement, underscoring both its strategic importance and the vital role played by local and regional authorities (LRAs) in the process. Speaking alongside Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kos, members of the EPP group in the European Committee of the Regions highlighted their views on current challenges and future prospects.
A City of Peace and Culture
Rodolfo Ziberna, Mayor of Gorizia, offered a powerful reflection on how former divisions can become models of unity: “Gorizia and Nova Gorica have demonstrated to Europe and the world that a border, once a painful witness to the tragedies of the twentieth century, can become a tool for sharing and collective growth. This is the model we must export to other regions still marked by division.”
Elianne Demollin-Schneiders, Regional Minister of the Province of Limburg, emphasized the practical benefits of cross-border cooperation: “In Limburg we have Cross-Border Information Points that guide citizens through the complexities of living and working across borders. In our Euregio Meuse-Rhine, five universities from three different countries are currently exploring the possibilities for trinational education, using the border as an opportunity.”
The Western Balkans: Challenges and Realities
Nikola Dobroslavić, Prefect of Dubrovnik-Neretva County, reflected on mixed signals from the region: “It is not yet clear if all Western Balkans countries want EU membership. For example, in Serbia they are confused by the policies of President Vučić. In Bosnia and Herzegovina, the problems of separatism and unitarism are worrying – all citizens’ rights must be guaranteed.”
Bruno Hranić, Mayor of Vidovec, echoed this concern: “Serbia is trying to interfere in all the politics of these countries. We have to ask where the people are who are not protesting against the Vučić government. Are they in line with the government? We need to focus on the government of Serbia since it influences all the other candidate countries.”
Reform, Ownership, and European Values
Dimitrios Kafantaris, Municipal Councillor of Pylos-Nestoros, stressed the urgency of reform: “Enlargement remains at the top of the EU agenda. The geopolitical and security situation in Europe makes enlargement an imperative. Especially in times of crisis, we must not lose sight of our values. The EU does not have a magic wand for reform – the necessary transformation requires ownership. Enlargement is a single process and a single methodology, and we wish to see all candidates progress on a thoroughly merit-based approach.”
Promoting Unity and Identity through Local Action
Giuseppe Guida, Provincial Councillor, Caserta Province Council, emphasized the local dimension of enlargement: “The arrival of new European citizens fosters integration and cultural exchange. Twinning, youth mobility programmes, and intercultural dialogue are part of a mosaic aimed at building a more inclusive European identity. EU enlargement offers economic and cultural opportunities, especially at the local level. Regions must lead as drivers of employment and growth. Europe is built from the bottom up, starting with its cities and regions.”
A Strategic Imperative, with No Room for Compromise
Konstantinos Bakoyannis, Municipal Councillor of Athens, called for better involvement of LRAs: “EU enlargement is a strategic investment in peace, stability, and prosperity. But we must not compromise on the EU acquis. Democratic backsliding in Turkey and interference in local democracy is unacceptable. LRAs must be fully involved at every stage of the enlargement process.”
Jelena Drenjanin also underlined the need for rule of law: “Candidate countries must follow all the necessary steps. We have to ensure respect for the rule of law. Much has changed since the last country joined the EU, and since the UK left.”
Eleni Loucaidou, Member of the Municipal Council of Lefkosia, focused on the situation in Cyprus and Turkey: “Turkey must contribute to a peaceful solution in Cyprus, fulfill its international obligations, and respect the sovereignty of EU member states and the law of the sea. It currently occupies 40% of Cyprus, a European country. The situation there reflects a sad reality where human rights, democracy, and the rule of law are not respected.”
Ukraine and Moldova: A Moral Duty and a Shared Effort
Zitelli Ferrari emphasized unwavering support for Ukraine: “Supporting Ukraine is an ethical and moral duty. We are already helping through defence, reconstruction, and refugee integration initiatives. But regions need help to keep helping effectively.”
Emil Boc, Mayor of Cluj-Napoca, stated: “Moldova deserves to be in the EU. They chose Europe over Russia, and democracy over autocracy.”