Marta Kos Appointed as New Commissioner for Neighbourhood and Enlargement

The European Parliament has begun hearings to assess the qualifications of 26 candidates for commissioner roles. All nominees will be evaluated by parliamentary committees by 12 November.

A Key Role for Candidate and Neighbouring Countries

Marta Kos is poised to become a pivotal figure for countries awaiting EU membership, as well as those concerned about EU migration policies.

In her opening speech at today’s hearing, Kos emphasised her commitment to helping candidate countries accelerate their reforms and progress toward European integration. Drawing on her experience as an ambassador and foreign policy expert, she vowed to work closely with these nations.

“I am grateful for the opportunity to share my vision for enlargement and neighbourhood policy. I will never forget the moment when my country, Slovenia, became an EU member. It was a moment that infused us with new energy, strength, and opportunities. From that perspective, I want all candidate countries to understand what membership can bring and to start feeling the benefits even before accession,” Kos stated at the outset of her address.

Kos underscored that EU values are fundamental and must be upheld by candidate countries just as they are by full members.

All candidate countries are required to meet the set criteria, which include cooperating, implementing internal reforms, upholding the rule of law, democracy, and freedoms, combating corruption, and aligning their foreign policies with the EU’s policies.

"My focus will be on helping and supporting them. I will be there to listen and provide assistance, and I believe that through joint efforts, we can make progress. Additionally, these candidate countries must feel the support of EU member states. It’s about mutual trust, and I will strive to make the integration process for these countries inclusive and fair," said Marta Kos.

She emphasised that each candidate country will be assessed based on its individual efforts, and corruption or violations of citizens' rights will not be tolerated.

Kos highlighted the Growth Plan for the Western Balkans as a means for citizens of the region to experience the benefits of EU membership even before formal accession. In this context, she noted that Western Balkan countries must fulfil their commitments outlined in their reform agendas, or the funding will not be disbursed.

"This support will encourage them on their reform path, but skipping steps will not be allowed. They will experience the benefits of membership—something they already feel now, for example, with roaming agreements, and soon with SEPA and access to the single market," she explained.

Kos also addressed the complex geopolitical situation, including the war in Ukraine, during both her opening remarks and her responses to MEPs’ questions. She discussed its impact on international policies and the integration process.

"I promise that we will support Kyiv in its recovery efforts and its continued path toward integration. The same applies to Moldova and Georgia, where the internal political situation is particularly complex," Kos stated.

She added that irregular migration will not be tolerated and that migration policy must be grounded in respect for human rights on one hand and the EU Pact on Migration on the other.

"The security of all EU members and future candidates is something we must ensure, which is why we will monitor the operation of migrant reception and return centres," she said.

Kos emphasised that attacks on journalists, human rights, and citizens will not be tolerated.

"Democracy isn’t just in institutions; it is in the homes and hearts of all European citizens. I will listen to everyone, especially young people, and incorporate their perspectives into integration and neighbourhood policies because I believe listening, collaboration, and respect are critical. These are my priorities, and I promise to work with my colleagues to support everyone in protecting rights and freedoms," she stressed.

Kos promised to give all candidate countries an equal opportunity to advance in the integration process, while stressing that "it is up to them how much progress they make."

"Enlargement is now once again a historic opportunity for the entire continent, and building a better future for all Europeans is the bloc’s main principle and mission—now more than ever," she concluded.

Marta Kos promised Members of the European Parliament that only countries that uphold the European Union’s values would be eligible for membership.

"The geopolitical situation is highly complex, and I will take into account the specific circumstances of each candidate country. We must ensure the integrity of every integration process, making it fair, and it is our responsibility to help them. Membership comes with strict conditions, and every country must meet them. The negotiation process is not easy, and I hope I can count on all of you for support,” Kos emphasised, adding that integration processes cannot be sacrificed due to geopolitical challenges.

She reiterated several times that the EU’s values are fundamental, stating that it is not just about economics, but about principles.

"The question is also for us—what kind of EU do we want? But the main point is that everything begins and ends with fundamental values. The economy is important, but without preserving the Union’s values, it means nothing. Protecting freedoms and democracy is crucial for us," she stressed.

The Question of Western Balkan Integration

Kos acknowledged that there are varying expectations among countries and that the EU integration process can sometimes appear to take longer in certain cases.

"For the first time in 10 years, we now have a chance to bring one or two countries to the finish line. I hope this will happen by the end of 2026 for Montenegro or by 2027 for Albania. Regarding Serbia, we recently heard President Aleksandar Vučić reaffirm that Serbia is firmly on the European path and making every effort to accelerate the EU integration process," she said, adding that it is essential to understand that countries that started the process later cannot be compared to those that entered negotiations earlier.

On the issue of Kosovo and Metohija and the Belgrade-Pristina dialogue, Kos stressed that the dialogue must continue and be strengthened, and if current methods have not yielded results, alternative approaches must be explored.

She underlined that regional cooperation is a prerequisite for maintaining peace and stability in the region.

Kos also stated that she could not provide concrete dates for when these countries might join the EU but promised to give them all the necessary support to ensure this happens as soon as possible, tailored to each country’s progress.

Regarding North Macedonia and claims by officials that the process has stalled, she noted significant progress in the country but emphasised that much work remains, particularly in the areas of democracy, human rights, and foreign policy alignment.

When asked about Russian and Chinese influence in Serbia and Republika Srpska, Kos expressed confidence that Serbia understands its path lies with the EU and must align its policies accordingly.

In Georgia, where recent elections have created issues surrounding democracy and human rights, Kos had a message for the Georgian people: "To the Georgian people, I say—don’t give up. The government must demonstrate its commitment to the European path and implement rights. We are ready to support them and have prepared an aid package. Nothing is final, and I urge Parliament to assist Georgia," she explained.

Combating Disinformation and Attacks on Media

Kos also pledged to combat disinformation and ensure that attacks on journalists are not tolerated. Media freedom, she stated, is a fundamental pillar of democracy and the rule of law and will be closely monitored.

Several MEPs questioned her about previous allegations of collaboration with Yugoslavia’s secret service. Kos categorically denied these claims, calling them "absolute lies and disinformation," and pointed to her extensive foreign policy work and achievements as proof of her integrity.

"The rule of law is the foundation of the EU. We will adhere to the rule of law in every case. If reforms and obligations are not fulfilled, it is clear there will be no funding from the Growth Plan. Transparency is essential, and I will remain open to all questions. I hope to coordinate effectively between candidate countries and you," Kos concluded.