On Tuesday, March 24, 2026, from 10:00 to 11:30, either online or at Ifri – 27 rue de la procession, 75015 Paris, a discussion on the enlargement of the European Union in the context of the Russian-Ukrainian war took place. The ongoing conflict has brought a renewed focus on the Western Balkans in European strategic debates, amidst a backdrop of increasing international instability.
Issues such as Russian destabilization efforts, China’s economic influence tactics, and perceived shifts in the U.S.’ approach have added complexity to European decision-making. France appears to be considering an expansion strategy not just as a political integration project but also as a tool for stability and credibility within the Union.
The conference aimed to explore how EU enlargement can enhance geopolitical resilience without compromising institutional, political, or budgetary balances. It also raised questions about the potential impact of short-term geopolitical strategies on the long-term coherence and sustainability of the European project.
The event featured welcoming remarks by Dominique David, President of the Franco-Austrian Center for European Reconciliation, followed by an opening speech by Benjamin Haddad, Minister for Europe at the Ministry of European and Foreign Affairs. Subsequent discussions involved Pierre Vimont from Carnegie Europe, Jovana Marović, Nikola Dimitrov, and Doris Wydra, among others. The conference was organized in collaboration with the European Fund for the Balkans (EFB) and Balkans in Europe Policy Advisory Group (BiEPAG).
