EU Outlines Key Reform Benchmarks That Will Define Pace of Ukraine’s Accession Negotiations

The pace of Ukraine’s negotiations for EU membership will primarily hinge on the implementation of reforms within the so-called fundamental cluster, particularly those concerning the rule of law. This was announced by Belgian Foreign Minister Hadja Lahbib during an intergovernmental conference in Luxembourg, marking the beginning of talks on Ukraine’s accession to the EU.

Lahbib emphasized that the negotiation process aims for Ukraine to fully adopt the EU acquis — the fundamental norms and rules of the European Union — and ensure their practical implementation. She stated that the EU expects Ukraine to continue demonstrating reliability in fulfilling commitments and political will by implementing necessary reforms and achieving significant progress within the fundamental cluster. The active participation of civil society in reform processes remains crucial for their successful long-term implementation.

Lahbib highlighted that Ukraine will need to continue reforms in the rule of law and human rights, strengthen democratic institutions, reform public administration, and move towards meeting economic criteria. Judicial reform, combating corruption, and ensuring non-discriminatory treatment of national minorities will receive particular attention. She underscored that progress within the fundamental cluster will determine the overall pace of negotiations. The European Commission will closely monitor progress and regularly report to the European Council to ensure the irreversible nature, comprehensiveness, and effectiveness of reforms in these areas.

Additionally, Vice Prime Minister for European and Euro-Atlantic Integration Olha Stefanishyna, leading Ukraine’s delegation in accession negotiations with the European Union, affirmed Ukraine’s readiness to fulfill 11 demands from Hungary regarding the protection of national minorities' rights. She made these remarks during her speech at the first Intergovernmental Conference on Ukraine’s EU accession on June 25, as reported by “European Truth.”

Stefanishyna recalled Ukraine’s repeated and persistent commitment to maintaining good relations with its neighbors, particularly concerning the protection of national minorities' rights. She stated, “As of now, we are sincerely committed to addressing and, based on this commitment, fully implementing the 11 issues raised, particularly by the Hungarian side, aimed at enhancing the protection of national minorities' rights. We will continue bilateral consultations with Hungary in this direction.”

Furthermore, she noted that Ukraine is prepared to implement further steps regarding the protection of national minorities' rights, agreed upon through dialogue and based on respective agreements with Hungary, conscientiously contributing to mutual understanding, trust, and respect.

“We expect a similar contribution from our neighboring partners for further mutual understanding, trust, and respect,” Stefanishyna concluded.