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The European Union (EU) is a political and economic union that currently comprises 27 member states. Several countries aspire to join the EU, each with its own unique circumstances and aspirations for membership. As of December 2024, there are nine recognized candidate countries actively seeking EU membership. Below is a detailed overview of these countries.
1. Albania
Albania has been a candidate country since 2014 and has made significant progress in aligning its legislation with EU standards. The country has focused on judicial reforms, anti-corruption measures, and strengthening the rule of law as part of its accession process.
2. Bosnia and Herzegovina
Bosnia and Herzegovina submitted its application for EU membership in 2016 and was granted candidate status in December 2022. The country faces challenges related to governance, ethnic divisions, and the need for comprehensive reforms to meet the Copenhagen criteria.
3. Georgia
Georgia applied for EU membership in March 2022, seeking closer ties with Europe following the Russian invasion of Ukraine. The country has implemented various reforms aimed at enhancing democracy, human rights, and economic stability.
4. Moldova
Moldova applied for EU membership alongside Ukraine in February 2022 amid geopolitical tensions with Russia. It was granted candidate status in June 2022 and is working on implementing reforms related to governance, anti-corruption, and economic development.
5. Montenegro
Montenegro has been a candidate since 2010 and has been engaged in negotiations since 2012. The country aims to complete its accession by meeting the necessary benchmarks set by the EU, particularly concerning rule of law and anti-corruption efforts.
6. North Macedonia
North Macedonia became an official candidate for EU membership in 2005 but faced delays due to disputes with neighboring Greece over its name until the Prespa Agreement was reached in 2018. The country is currently negotiating its accession terms.
7. Serbia
Serbia began negotiations for EU membership in January 2014 after being granted candidate status in March 2012. The country is working on aligning its laws with EU standards while addressing issues related to regional stability and relations with Kosovo.
8. Turkey
Turkey has been an official candidate since 1999 but has faced significant hurdles regarding human rights concerns, political reforms, and relations with Cyprus that have stalled negotiations since they began in 2005.
9. Ukraine
Following Russia’s invasion in 2022, Ukraine applied for EU membership and was granted candidate status in June 2024. The country is undergoing significant reforms aimed at aligning with EU standards amid ongoing conflict.
Please note : Kosovo formally submitted its application for EU membership in 2022 but faces recognition issues as five EU member states do not recognize its independence from Serbia. Despite this challenge, Kosovo continues to pursue reforms necessary for potential accession.