What is the new EU enlargement methodology? What are Kosovo’s opportunities for membership? Is Kosovo moving in the right direction? These were some of the issues discussed at the Tuesday Salon with the topic: “New EU enlargement methodology: What does it mean for Kosovo integration?”
The panelists emphasized that the new methodology gives more power to EU member states. Thus, the new enlargement methodology will make it easier for Kosovo to join the EU in the future. In addition, it was discussed about the issue of visa liberalization and the possibility of getting a green light amid Euroscepticism.
The panelists believe that the new enlargement methodology will smoothen the process and clarify the benchmarks needed to be undertaken. Moreover, it was pointed out that the government of Kosovo is sending positive signals that the new government will be one that respects the rule of law. The aim is to change the negative perceptions of member states towards Kosovo.
A recommendation made during this salon was the communication of the visa liberalization process, which should be fair and honest in order to avoid dissatisfaction from Kosovo citizens.
Part of the panel in this salon were: Danijela Barišić, Ambassador, Embassy of Croatia in Kosovo; Taulant Kryeziu, Deputy Minister, Ministry of European Integration and Bardha Tahiri-Jelliqi, European Integration Expert, Kosovar Civil Society Foundation (KCSF). The salon was moderated by Artan Murati, Lecturer of EU law and the op-ed will be written by Valeza Zogjani, Policy Researcher, Democracy for Development (D4D).
