Albania Proposes Reformed EU Accession Process to Curb Brain Drain

Albanian Foreign Minister Ferit Hoxha advocates for a revamped European Union enlargement process that offers candidate countries greater step-by-step involvement in EU programs and policymaking. Hoxha argues that the current model provides insufficient engagement for Western Balkans nations, contributing to a significant 'brain drain' as young people leave due to uncertain membership timelines. He suggests that advanced candidates like Albania should have increased access to EU institutions to better prepare for full membership, aiming for accession by 2030. While acknowledging recent domestic political scandals, Hoxha emphasizes Albania's irreversible justice reforms and commitment to the merit-based accession path. The proposal comes amidst broader EU debates on enlargement triggered by Ukraine's candidacy, though Brussels remains hesitant to radically alter the existing methodology. Hoxha highlights that tangible benefits and gradual integration are necessary to maintain public support in candidate countries, noting that while concepts like visa-free travel exist, more substantial institutional inclusion is required to materialize the promise of EU membership and retain talent in the region.