In a set of annual reports adopted on 8 October 2014, the European Commission has assessed the progress made over the past year by the countries wishing to join the EU in the Western Balkans and by Turkey.
Montenegro has taken further steps in accession negotiations. Twelve chapters have been opened so far, of which two provisionally closed.
The opening of accession negotiations is a turning point in the EU’s relations with Serbia. Now Serbia needs to continue delivering on its reform priorities in a sustained manner.
The EU accession process with the former FYR Macedonia is at an impasse.
Albania was granted candidate status in June as recognition for its reform efforts and progress made in meeting the required conditionality. The country needs to build on and consolidate the reform momentum and focus its efforts on tackling its EU-integration challenges in a sustainable and inclusive way. Both government and opposition need to ensure political debate takes place primarily in parliament.
Bosnia and Herzegovina remains at a standstill on its European integration path.
The initialling of a Stabilisation and Association Agreement with Kosovo in July is a major milestone in EU-Kosovo relations. Now Kosovo needs to deliver on key reforms, in particular the rule of law.
Implementation of certain reform commitments by Turkey has continued. Active and credible accession negotiations provide the most suitable framework for exploiting the full potential of EU-Turkey relations. Opening negotiations on the relevant chapters on rule of law and fundamental rights would provide a roadmap for reforms in these key areas.
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