Estimated time of reading: ~ 3 minutes  

The EU enlargement process, a grand endeavor aimed at fostering unity and collaboration across the continent, finds itself navigating treacherous waters as it contends with a myriad of challenges, chief among them being the looming specter of illegal migration from the Middle East. This multifaceted issue, exacerbated by conflicts and geopolitical tensions, contributes to the European Union’s current answers. The war in Ukraine, unfolded in 2014 and still going on, has contributed to a surge in illegal migration. The displacement of populations and the ensuing humanitarian crisis have created a complex dynamic, forcing the EU to grapple with not only the immediate consequences of the conflict but also the long-term implications for its enlargement ambitions.

The crisis along the Western Balkan route in 2015 and 2016 further underscored the vulnerabilities within the EU’s migration policies. The influx of refugees and migrants, primarily from war-torn regions of the Middle East, strained the capacities of both member states and candidate countries alike. The sheer magnitude of the crisis exposed the inadequacies in the EU’s ability to respond swiftly and cohesively, revealing structural weaknesses that threatened the very principles of solidarity and cooperation upon which the Union was founded.

In the wake of these challenges, the EU has undertaken a series of measures to staunch the flow of illegal migration and fortify its borders. The establishment of the European Border and Coast Guard Agency (Frontex) in 2016 marked a concerted effort to enhance border security and address the shortcomings revealed during the crisis. Frontex plays a crucial role in coordinating the management of external EU borders, deploying personnel and resources to support member states facing challenges in border control.

Furthermore, the EU has engaged in diplomatic efforts to address the root causes of migration, acknowledging that a comprehensive approach is essential for long-term success. The European Neighbourhood Policy and the Eastern Partnership initiative have sought to strengthen ties with neighboring countries, fostering stability and economic development to reduce the incentives for illegal migration. The EU’s financial assistance to countries dealing with the fallout of conflicts, such as Ukraine, reflects a commitment to addressing the underlying issues that contribute to migration. As the EU grapples with these challenges, it is increasingly apparent that the enlargement process is intricately linked to its ability to manage migration effectively.

The pressures exerted by migration not only strain resources but also test the resilience of the EU’s political and institutional framework. The delicate balance between humanitarian values and security imperatives underscores the complexity of the issue, requiring a nuanced and coordinated response. The EU’s enlargement process, once viewed as a beacon of hope for aspiring member states, now stands at a crossroads.

Written by: Nenad Stekić