The European Commission is taking steps to prevent future EU member states from adopting undemocratic practices, as it prepares for enlargement into eastern Europe. In an interview with the Guardian and other European newspapers, Marta Kos, the EU commissioner for enlargement, outlined proposals aimed at safeguarding the bloc against leaders who might undermine democratic values.
Key Proposals
Kos emphasized the need for mechanisms that go beyond the existing Article 7, which allows for the suspension of a member state's voting rights in cases of serious breaches of democratic principles. "No more Viktor Orbán," Kos stated, referring to the former Hungarian prime minister known for his authoritarian governance.
Under the new proposals, any new EU member state would undergo a 15-year probation period. During this time, they could lose voting rights or EU funds if they violate basic democratic values or fail to adhere to the principle of sincere cooperation with the EU.
Context of the Proposals
The current Article 7 has never been enacted, despite ongoing discussions about democratic backsliding in countries like Poland and Hungary. The reluctance to apply this measure has been attributed to these countries using their veto power to protect one another. The new proposals aim to lower the threshold for suspending voting rights or imposing other penalties for breaches of democratic standards.
