EU Membership: The Balkans’ Never-Ending Job Interview
Europe’s Parliament just wrapped up its annual performance review for five hopeful Western Balkan countries, and let’s just say some got gold stars while others received a polite “we need to talk.”
Albania is basically the overachiever who keeps promising to finish their homework by 2027. Parliament gave them a thumbs up with 483 votes, but added a gentle reminder: “Actually implementing laws you’ve passed would be nice.” They’re making swift progress, but still need to work on their political drama addiction and corruption issues. Think of it as relationship advice: it’s not just about making promises, it’s about following through.
Bosnia and Herzegovina got 478 votes of support, but Parliament essentially told them to stop arguing in the backseat. The message? End the political vetoes, quit the divisive rhetoric, and maybe try working together for once. Revolutionary concept, we know.
Kosovo earned 412 votes despite not having a functioning government for over a year—which is like applying for a job while admitting you can’t organize your own desk. Parliament wants them to patch things up with Serbia and actually implement those Brussels and Ohrid agreements they signed. You know, minor details.
Montenegro is the star pupil with 486 votes, eyeing a 2028 EU membership finish line. They’re steady, ambitious, and apparently doing their homework on time. Finally, someone read the instructions.
North Macedonia squeaked by with 411 votes but got the dreaded “no progress since last year” comment. Parliament is basically saying: “We’ve been over this. Rule of law. Judicial reform. Constitutional amendments. Any day now would be great.”
The verdict? Everyone’s invited to keep trying, but maybe pick up the pace.