17 Oct 2026
Moldova May Outpace Ukraine in the EU Accession Process
The
European Union is considering the possibility of accelerating the accession
process for the Republic of Moldova, which could allow it to overtake Ukraine
on the path to membership. In Brussels, discussions are underway about opening
the first “negotiation cluster” for Moldova as early as September 2025, which
would be a key step toward integration.
Moldova has been actively pursuing EU integration, as
evidenced by the referendum held in October 2024, in which the majority of
citizens voted in favor of joining the European Union. In addition, in June
2024, the EU officially opened accession negotiations with Moldova,
simultaneously with Ukraine.
Although Ukraine submitted its application for EU
membership before Moldova, its integration process faces certain challenges. In
particular, Hungary continues to block Kyiv’s efforts to join the EU, slowing
down the negotiation process.
If the EU decides to accelerate Moldova’s accession
process, it could represent a significant step in strengthening the eastern
flank of the European Union. However, for successful integration, Moldova will
need to implement a series of reforms, especially in the areas of justice and
anti-corruption.
Accelerating Moldova’s EU accession could send an important signal to other Eastern Partnership countries and demonstrate the EU’s readiness for expansion. Nevertheless, achieving this goal will require continued reforms and the strengthening of democratic institutions in Moldova.
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