rule of law

Rule of Law as a Cornerstone of EU Enlargement in the Western Balkans

The European Union's enlargement policy towards the Western Balkans has increasingly prioritized the rule of law as a fundamental component. Historically, accession negotiations focused on economic reforms and regulatory alignment; however, experiences from the integration of Central and Eastern European nations between 2004 and 2007 highlighted persistent governance issues, prompting a strategic shift. For candidate countries such as Serbia, Montenegro, Albania, and North Macedonia, advancements in judicial independence, anti-corruption measures, and democratic integrity are now pivotal for EU integration. This…