S&Ds call for renewed EU commitment to the enlargement process

The Socialists and Democrats in the European Parliament strongly support a European future for the West Balkan countries and Turkey and call for renewed EU commitment to the enlargement process.

 

At a conference organised by Maria Eleni Koppa on 'Enlargement in perspective' (Brussels, 6/03) Socialists and Democrats underlined the need for a clear EU message with accession prospects for all candidates countries.

 

The aim of the conference was to give voice to perspectives from civil society and the academia on the impact of the economic and political crisis of Europe on enlargement and to try to understand better how the crisis has influenced the public opinion of the candidate countries with regard to their accession perspective.

 

 

"On their path towards the EU, Turkey and the Balkan countries must continue and accelerate their efforts to apply the acquis communautaire and meet the Copenhagen criteria. The enlargement process is vital to promote democracy and improve economic and political stability.

 

"Emphasis must be placed on the rule of law, freedom of expression and the fight against corruption. There is a clear need for structural reforms, particularly in the area of the judiciary.

 

"Enlargement prospects have to remain in the EU toolbox and the final criterion for accession should be the candidate's progress on the acquis communautaire and the Copenhagen criteria. This clear message should be send to all candidate countries to encourage them to work towards a European future."

 

 

"We strongly support the enlargement process as an integral and necessary part of our progressive European vision. The crisis has broad impact on the perception of ordinary people about the European project. We need to support a vibrant civil society that develops around and sustains the idea of European integration. We have, however, also to reinforce the faith in people that the EU can bring positive socio-economic change in the enlargement countries. Europe is based on the value of solidarity and austerity measures alone cannot respond to the economic crisis. Decent work and social standards in line with the EU acquis is our claim for the enlargement countries."

 

 

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