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Democratic Security
EU Values Foresight
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Civil Society Is the Weak Element of European Defence Posture
30 October 2025
Despite much discussion on the topic, there has been little actual preparation for EU enlargement. But this is not because of oft-quoted prejudices against the accession process, few of which actually hold water. Rather, much of the talk in EU capitals seems to be about inventing reasons not to enlarge.
There has been much talk about preparing Europe for the next enlargement. Recently, the European Commission announced major pre-enlargement reforms and policy reviews to begin in early 2025.
Despite abundant discussions about moving forward, the EU seems to be going in circles. “We must be prepared,” goes the usual mantra recently evoked by Commissioner Maroš Šefčovič.
Is this a result of prejudice against neighbours from outside the club? Or is it merely a lack of strategic foresight? Perhaps, when talking about the enlargement process, the EU must start thinking about the prospect of darker futures…?
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