EU Plans to Start Ukraine Membership Negotiations, Hungary's Objections Complicate Process
EU Plans to Start Ukraine Membership Negotiations, Hungary's Objections Complicate Process
The European Union is working to kickstart membership negotiations with Ukraine on June 25, aiming to provide a boost to Kyiv in the face of existing challenges. However, Hungary's objections pose a significant hurdle. The objections are centered around the protection of Hungarian minorities in Ukraine and other matters such as trade, corruption, and agriculture, despite strong support from the majority of the 27 EU member states. The European Commission put forward a negotiating framework in March, following a decision by EU leaders in December to open talks with Ukraine. Belgium, the current EU presidency holder, is pushing for the commencement of negotiations before Hungary takes over on July 1, adding to the complexities of the process. A final decision on the negotiations could be pushed back until June 17, during an informal meeting of EU leaders. Even with approval, the pathway to membership is anticipated to be prolonged and intricate, as exemplified by Croatia's decade-long application process.
Key Takeaways
- The EU plans to begin Ukraine membership negotiations on June 25, subject to Hungary's consent.
- Despite wide support, Hungary's objections are hindering negotiations, particularly concerning minority rights.
- The European Commission proposed a framework for negotiations in March, subsequent to the EU leaders' decision to commence talks.
Analysis
The EU's efforts to initiate negotiations with Ukraine encounter challenges due to Hungary's objections, impacting both minority rights and policy alignment. This deadlock stands to delay EU support, having potential repercussions on Ukraine's stability and economic integration. Short-term implications encompass strained EU-Ukraine relations and internal EU unity, while long-term effects may include impediments to foreign investment and a slowdown in Ukraine's reform process. The resolution depends on diplomatic maneuvers and the possibility of Hungary aligning with broader EU interests.
Did You Know?
- EU Presidency: Every six months, the presidency of the Council of the European Union rotates among member states. Belgium, the current holder, aims to kickstart Ukraine's membership negotiations before Hungary takes over, possibly causing further delays.
- Negotiating Framework: This comprehensive document set forth by the European Commission outlines the terms, conditions, and procedures for accession negotiations between the EU and a candidate country, such as Ukraine.
- Croatia's Decade-Long Application Process: Croatia's path to EU membership, which began in 2003 and concluded in 2013, illustrates the intricate and time-consuming nature of EU accession negotiations, providing insight into potential challenges Ukraine might face.