A gradual and carefully managed enlargement policy is in the interest of the EU. Future enlargements will concern the countries of Southeast Europe. These countries are at various stages on their road towards joining the EU.

Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, Serbia, as well as Kosovo under UN Security Council Resolution 1244/99 are potential candidates for membership of the EU. The EU has repeatedly reaffirmed at the highest level its commitment for eventual EU membership of the Western Balkan, provided they fulfill the accession criteria. On the 16th of July 2009 Iceland submitted its application for EU membership.

The Commission prepares Progress Reports on each candidate and potential candidate every year. These reports describe the political and economic developments, they assess the candidates' ability to adapt and implement EU legislation, as well as the progress of the potential candidates in adopting EU standards and fulfilling other specific conditions, such as regional cooperation and cooperation with the ICTY (International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia). The reports highlight the main achievements and pinpoint the shortcomings.

Following the links, you will find interesting information about the five potential candidates of the European Union.

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