Friends of the Western Balkans – Brussels

The June 2024 EU elections marked a shift to the right of Europe’s political spectrum. This development was largely foreseen. Yet, the extreme right’s wave did not fully materialise, and the European People’s Party surprisingly managed to increase its share of seats significantly in Strasbourg. The balance of power within the European Parliament and the Council is, however, strongly leaning to the right despite the Socialist’s capacity to hold the fort. Furthermore, the disruptive effect of the elections on two key countries, France and Germany, could weaken their negotiating power and, consequently, their influence on the enlargement process. Finally, the results of the presidential elections in the US could considerably affect relations between the two sides of the Atlantic and impact the approach to the Western Balkans.

How may these changes translate into policies? What will happen to the enlargement to the Western Balkans? How will the right-wing parties try to shape the debate around accession? And what should European progressive forces do to keep the momentum, push for enlargement and support progressive forces in the region? 

These topics will be at the core of discussion at the sixth meeting of the Friends of the Western Balkans (FoWB), which this time will meet in Brussels at a crucial political moment—when the wheels of the newly formed Parliament and Commission will be set in motion. 

Once again, the FoWB meeting will be an opportunity for exchange between European and national decision-makers, academics, activists and analysts, aimed at increasing mutual understanding while preparing the ground for accession. 

A political statement by the FoWB will follow after this meeting.

For more information regarding this event, please do not hesitate to contact Julia Wild, Project Officer (julia.wild@feps-europe.eu).