The European Union readmission policy after Lisbon

Abstract

In 2010, severalWestern Balkans states have taken steps towards EU integration, but after Croatia's accession, the rest of the region will have to work hard for many years before it is ready to join. EU concerns with problems at home do not favour further enlargement prospects, but sustaining momentum also depends on deep reforms in theWestern Balkans region. More realistic expectations regarding enlargement could buy some time to pay more attention to the democratic quality of the process, building popular trust in political elites and institutions, and enhancing mutual understanding between the EU and theWestern Balkans.