On 18 November, the EU Enlargement Forum 2025 brought together more than 400 participants at the heart of Europe, in Brussels, with many more joining online. As a flagship initiative of the European Commission, the event marked an important moment for the future of the European Union, placing enlargement at the forefront of political and public debate. It gathered EU leaders, national representatives, civil society, and young people at a time when the vision of a larger and more resilient Europe feels closer than it has in many years. Among the participants were the Young European Ambassadors from the Western Balkans, who followed the discussions closely and actively contributed with their insights.
Throughout the forum, the six YEAs, Amina Hadžić, Enia Hoxha, Ilir Kiçmari, Mina Milović, Nikola Mihail Angelovski and Teodora Danilović, engaged in multiple panels that explored Europe’s evolving geopolitical priorities, Member State perspectives, the role of citizens, and the pathway toward accession. Their presence ensured that the experiences and expectations of young people from candidate countries were reflected in the broader conversation. They listened attentively to how democratic reforms, economic opportunities, mobility, and European values shape the hopes and challenges of their generation.
Meeting the European Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kos was one of the most meaningful moments for the YEAs. Their conversation focused on the importance of youth perspectives in shaping the enlargement narrative and the need for young people across the Western Balkans to understand the historic opportunity before them. Beyond this, the forum provided valuable opportunities to connect with civil society organisations, regional and local stakeholders, media professionals, entrepreneurs and EU ambassadors. Exchanges with Young European Ambassadors from the Eastern Partnership added new insights into shared challenges and common aspirations toward European integration.
These encounters deepened the YEAs’ understanding of the many dimensions of enlargement. They learned why the current geopolitical context makes enlargement a strategic priority for the EU and reflected on the fact that 67 percent of EU citizens feel they lack sufficient information about the process of enlargement. As they returned home, the YEAs brought with them new knowledge, strong networks and renewed motivation to share the forum’s messages within their communities. For them, the forum delivered a clear message: completing the Union is essential for securing Europe’s future in an increasingly complex geopolitical environment. To YEAs, this moment represents both a responsibility and an opportunity, to help bring the Western Balkans closer to the European Union, tackle divides and promote mutual understanding.
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