The recent confirmation of Marta Kos as EU Commissioner for Enlargement marks a new chapter in the European Union’s approach to the Western Balkans and other aspiring member states. Slovenia’s role in securing this portfolio reflects its commitment to guiding and coordinating the EU accession process and deepening collaboration with nations sharing European values and ambitions. This achievement owes much to the effective leadership of Slovenia’s government and, in particular, Prime Minister Dr. Robert Golob.
The Key Role of Prime Minister Dr. Robert Golob
Prime Minister Dr. Robert Golob played a crucial role in securing this portfolio for Slovenia, as his high regard within the European Commission, and especially his trust with Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, laid the foundation for Slovenia’s success in this appointment. Golob’s strategic foresight and diplomatic planning were instrumental in achieving this goal, with the enlargement portfolio now encompassing the stability of the Balkans as well as implementation of other critical EU policies, including Ukraine’s reconstruction—a key and highly complex responsibility within this mandate.
Granting the Portfolio to Slovenia: A Vote of Confidence in Slovenian Diplomacy
In Slovenia, receiving the enlargement portfolio is celebrated as both a diplomatic victory and a sign of trust in the country’s dedication to European values and its commitment to EU interests beyond its borders. This role highlights the EU’s focus on fostering political stability and democratic progress in the Western Balkans as well as in Ukraine, which is fighting to preserve its sovereignty. Marta Kos, as Slovenia’s representative in the European Commission, now takes on the responsibility of making the enlargement process more effective and sustainable by supporting reforms within candidate countries and strengthening their ties with EU institutions.
Plans to Accelerate the Accession Process
Kos has underscored that, for the first time in a decade, there is a real opportunity to bring some negotiations closer to completion. According to her projections, Montenegro could conclude negotiations by 2026, with Albania expected to follow by 2027. These forecasts demonstrate the EU’s commitment to integrating countries that show strong dedication to reforms and democratization. Kos has also indicated her intention to advocate for a shift in the EU’s decision-making process for opening and closing accession chapters, proposing qualified majority voting in place of unanimous consent to streamline the process.
Supporting Ukraine and Setting New Priorities
Alongside support for the Western Balkans, Kos plans to advance EU enlargement as a vehicle for Ukraine’s integration. In the event of final approval, she has announced her intention to visit Kyiv immediately to initiate critical talks on institutional alignment with the EU and post-war reconstruction efforts. As Kos pointed out, Ukraine’s reconstruction will demand substantial resources and a clear framework for cooperation, allowing the country to progressively integrate into the European legal, economic, and social fabric. This also entails a commitment to developing standardized initiatives that will accelerate Ukraine’s EU integration while strengthening its relations with current EU members.
A New Era for Europe and the Balkans
Marta Kos takes office at a challenging time, with EU enlargement now seen as a geopolitical imperative, particularly in light of instability in the Balkans and Ukraine. Experts suggest that previous enlargement policies have eroded trust among citizens in candidate countries and that a reformed approach is essential for the EU to regain its transformative influence in the region. Kos has the opportunity to collaborate with high-ranking EU representatives to enhance transparency and equity in accession negotiations, promoting stronger ties with countries that are strategically vital to Europe’s stability and security
With the assignment of this portfolio, Slovenia now has the opportunity to position itself as a leader in promoting European values in the Balkans and to strengthen support for the European aspirations of countries like Ukraine, Montenegro, Albania, and other candidate nations. Through his strategic involvement and the high credibility he holds on the European level, Dr. Robert Golob has enabled Slovenia to take on a leading role in shaping and implementing EU enlargement. Now, it falls to Marta Kos to justify the trust placed in her and to contribute to building a stronger Europe—one that is prepared to respond to the needs of its neighbors and support them on the path to full EU membership.