EU-Western Balkans Summit in Tivat Highlights Gradual Integration Approach (visegradinsight.eu)

• Franco-German non-paper proposed gradual integration for Western Balkans candidates.
• June 5 Tivat summit signaled renewed political momentum for enlargement.
• Full membership is no longer the only prize; structured participation is emphasized.

"The June 5, 2026 EU-Western Balkans summit in Tivat, Montenegro, marked a shift in enlargement policy. A Franco-German non-paper proposed a toolbox for gradual integration, allowing candidate countries to participate in EU policies before full membership. The summit highlighted a renewed political momentum but fell short of historic breakthroughs."