STORY
The EU is considering whether new member states could be denied automatic veto rights for a temporary period after accession, as the bloc looks for ways to continue enlargement without paralysing decision-making. The Guardian reported that the idea is being discussed as the EU prepares for potential future accessions from the Western Balkans, Moldova and possibly Ukraine.
The proposal is politically sensitive because it could be seen as creating a lower tier of membership. Supporters argue that some form of safeguard may be needed to avoid future blockages in areas where unanimity is required, particularly foreign policy and taxation. Hungary’s repeated use of vetoes has sharpened the debate.
The discussion reflects the EU’s wider dilemma over enlargement. Leaders want to counter Russian and Chinese influence in neighbouring regions and reward reforming candidate countries, but they also face pressure to ensure that a larger union can still function. Montenegro, which hopes to join before the end of the decade, could become an early test case for any new arrangements.