Explainers

Adopting the euro is more than just changing currency. It offers tangible and lasting benefits for citizens, businesses and overall economic stability.

The EU’s common agricultural policy (CAP) ensures food security, encourages sustainable farming and supports rural areas.

The EU is working on a strategy to further increase consumer protection and trust in order to encourage investment in European capital markets.

Türkiye was granted candidate status in December 1999 and began accession negotiations in October 2005. These negotiations are at a standstill since June 2018. The EU and Türkiye cooperate in areas of joint interest.

Georgia applied for EU membership in March 2022 and was granted candidate status in December 2023. The accession process came to a de facto halt in 2024. The EU and Georgia also cooperate in the context of the Eastern Partnership.

North Macedonia applied for EU membership in March 2004 and was granted EU candidate status in December 2005. The EU held its first intergovernmental conference with North Macedonia in July 2022.

Serbia applied for EU membership in December 2009 and was granted EU candidate status in March 2012. The EU-Serbia accession negotiations began in January 2014. So far, 22 chapters have been opened.

The EU aims to improve transport connections between countries by funding infrastructure, encouraging greener travel and making sure different systems work well together.

Find out more about e-commerce in the EU and how the Digital Services Act will impact the sector.

The EU provides strong political, technical and financial support to help Western Balkans partners to progress on their European path.