ELIAMEP’s initiative think nea visit in Dublin, Ireland DATE: 1-3 June, 2026

From 1–3 June 2026, Dr. Ana Krstinovska and Dr. Frauke Seebass, representatives of ELIAMEP’s think nea – New Narratives of EU Integration initiative, visited Dublin for a series of meetings with officials from Ireland’s Department of Foreign Affairs and members of the Irish Parliament. The discussions focused on the future of EU enlargement, the role of the Western Balkans in Europe’s evolving strategic landscape, and priorities related to Ireland’s upcoming Presidency of the Council of the European Union.

During meetings with officials responsible for EU affairs and economic policy, participants exchanged views on the current momentum behind EU enlargement and the importance of maintaining a credible and forward-looking accession process. Discussions highlighted Ireland’s longstanding support for enlargement and solidarity with aspiring candidates, informed by its own experience of European integration and transformation, as well as the need to sustain public understanding of the benefits of EU enlargement.

Particular attention was given to the concept of gradual integration and the opportunities for strengthening cooperation between the European Union and candidate countries ahead of accession. Participants also discussed the importance of strategic communication and the need for positive and inclusive narratives that can strengthen public support for enlargement across Europe.

The think nea delegation also met with members of the Parliamentary Committee on European Union Affairs. The exchange focused on the geopolitical significance of enlargement, the future of the accession process, and the broader implications of EU reforms and budgetary discussions for candidate countries. Participants reflected on the importance of maintaining momentum in the enlargement process and ensuring that it remains a credible instrument for promoting stability, prosperity, and democratic transformation across Europe.

Throughout the discussions, the think nea team presented key findings from their ongoing research on the growing interconnection between EU enlargement and European strategic priorities. Particular emphasis was placed on the contribution that the Western Balkans can make to Europe’s competitiveness, economic resilience, security, and support for Ukraine. The delegation highlighted the region’s potential role in strengthening European industrial capacities and supply-chain resilience while advancing the broader goals of European integration.

The visit provided an important opportunity to exchange views with Irish policymakers and parliamentarians on the future of Europe and the role of the Western Balkans within it ahead of the Irish presidency starting in July. The discussions confirmed a strong interest in exploring how enlargement policy can contribute to a more secure, competitive, and resilient European Union while preserving a credible path to membership for candidate countries.