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EU says Montenegro on track to become bloc’s next member state by 2028
The European Commission says Montenegro could finish its EU accession negotiations by the end of this year and become the bloc’s next member in 2028. It is the frontrunner among nine candidate countries, and its progress could give fresh momentum to the EU’s enlargement plans.
Montenegro, with a population of 630,000, still needs reforms in areas including fundamental rights and financial services. If negotiations conclude this year, an accession treaty could be signed in June 2027, but all 27 member states would need to ratify it. Albania, Moldova and Ukraine are also progressing, while the Commission says Serbia’s talks could advance if a new government strengthens democracy.
In short
- Montenegro could join the EU in 2028.
- Accession talks may conclude by year’s end.
- Reforms and approval by all 27 members remain necessary.
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
Montenegro’s accession could reinforce stability, democratic reform and economic opportunity in the Western Balkans, while showing that the EU rewards credible progress. Supporters may also argue that enlargement gives the bloc stronger ties with neighbouring countries and fresh momentum, provided Montenegro completes the required reforms.
The case against
Sceptics may argue that a swift timetable risks putting political momentum ahead of thorough scrutiny, particularly on fundamental rights and financial services. Because every member state must ratify the treaty, they may also question whether a 2028 target is realistic and whether the EU should focus on its own readiness and existing commitments before expanding.
Explained simply
Montenegro is a small country in south-eastern Europe, on the Adriatic coast. It became independent in 2006 and applied to join the European Union two years later; it is one of nine countries recognised by the EU as candidates for membership.
Joining the EU involves negotiating changes to laws and institutions so they meet the bloc’s rules, including on rights and the economy. Montenegro’s progress matters to the EU’s wider plan to admit more countries, alongside candidates such as Albania, Moldova and Ukraine.
Even after negotiations are finished, membership is not automatic: every EU member state must ratify an accession treaty. Montenegro would also need to complete reforms in areas including fundamental rights and financial services.
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