New Global Policy Center brief explores EU enlargement and security amid geopolitical shifts

IE University’s Global Policy Center is pleased to be publishing its second policy brief, titled “Enlargement: Securing Europe in Times of War,” authored by Bernard Brunet, former Head of Unit for DG NEAR, the Directorate-General for Neighbourhood and Enlargement Negotiations of the European Commission. This brief explores the evolving role of EU enlargement in light of the significant geopolitical shifts caused by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

The Global Policy Center is deeply committed to the intellectual enrichment of the Future of Europe Debates, including the critical issue of enlargement. As the paper argues, the upcoming enlargement will not be a swift and easy process. However, it is an urgent necessity given the EU’s strategic interests in ensuring security, stability, and peace on the continent. The policy brief outlines how the EU must adapt its policies to address these new geopolitical realities.

The Russian invasion of Ukraine in February 2022 marked a profound change in European security dynamics. EU leaders now recognize that Russian President Vladimir Putin’s ambitions extend far beyond Ukraine, posing a threat to the stability of the entire European continent. This situation has prompted a dramatic shift in EU priorities, particularly regarding enlargement. The EU must now act decisively to secure its borders and promote lasting stability by accelerating the enlargement process, especially for Ukraine, Moldova, and Georgia—referred to as the “Eastern Trio”—as well as the Western Balkan countries.

Despite the strategic imperative to expand, the policy brief cautions that the enlargement process will not be simple. The EU must adapt its policies to the new geopolitical environment, particularly in areas such as common defense and security. The brief argues that a focus on defense and security cooperation is essential, with the EU needing to invest heavily in a common defense industry policy. Moreover, the EU’s current framework for external relations, particularly the European Neighbourhood Policy, must be re-examined to better align with the present security challenges.

Such an ambitious enlargement agenda will also require substantial financial resources. In light of the strategic changes, a fundamental review of the EU budget is necessary to ensure that sufficient funds are allocated to defense, security and the adaptation of EU institutions to manage new member states. Without a budget reorientation to prioritize these areas, the EU risks weakening its capacity to manage the enlargement process effectively. 

While much of the public debate surrounding EU enlargement focuses on its potential socioeconomic impacts, the policy brief stresses the importance of a public communication campaign to counteract negative perceptions. It is vital for EU policymakers to highlight how enlargement will contribute to the security and peace of all EU member states, ultimately benefiting both new and existing members. The EU's enlargement should be framed not merely as a political or economic project, but as a collective security strategy that strengthens the Union’s resilience against external threats.

The Global Policy Center would like to extend its special thanks to Bernard Brunet, the author of the paper, for his invaluable contribution to this highly relevant conversation. His insights have been instrumental in shaping the direction of this publication, which provides critical perspectives on how the EU can navigate its future enlargement while safeguarding peace and stability on the continent.

Please find the full “Enlargement in Times of War” policy brief on the Global Policy Center’s website.