Relations with the EU: With a young democracy still recovering from communist rule, Albania officially gained candidate status in 2014 and opened accession negotiations in July 2023. Progress has been steady, focusing on rule of law reforms and tackling organized crime. However, concerns remain regarding corruption and judicial independence.

Relations with the EU: Mired in complex political structures and lingering post-war divisions, Bosnia is a candidate country for EU membership since December 2022 and in March 2024, the European Council agreed in principle to open the EU accession talks. While reforms and EU alignment efforts are ongoing, internal disputes and ethnic tensions continue to hinder progress. Addressing these will be crucial for future EU aspirations.

Relations with the EU: The youngest state in the region, Kosovo declared independence in 2008 but faces recognition hurdles from some EU member states. In December 2022, it formally applied for EU membership. Recent visa liberalization progress is a positive step, but tackling internal political issues, rule of law challenges, and dialogue with Serbia will be critical. Kosovo is currently under EU sanctions.

Relations with the EU: Leading the pack in the Western Balkans, Montenegro secured candidate status in 2010 and began accession negotiations in 2012. Accession negotiations are ongoing, with 33 chapters opened. Chapters tackling judicial reforms and organized crime are crucial for EU membership consolidation.

Relations with the EU: The country recently resolved a long-standing name dispute with Greece, paving the way for the first intergovernmental conference marking the start of the negotiations to be held in July 2022. Early progress focuses on rule of law and good neighborly relations. Maintaining this momentum and addressing corruption concerns will be key.

Relations with the EU: Serbia gained EU candidate status in 2012 and opened accession negotiations in 2014. Progress has been mixed, with advancements in economic reforms balanced by concerns about democratic backsliding and media freedom. Recently, the EU has linked results on the Dialogue with Kosovo to Serbia's progress in EU membership.