EU enlargement: review of the balance of competences
Download the full outcome
Detail of outcome
This report examines the impact of EU enlargement on the UK national interest across the policy spectrum and considers future challenges for enlargement. It also analyses the balance of competences between Member States and EU institutions in the enlargement process.
The report is led by the Foreign and Commonwealth Office and is a reflection and analysis of evidence submitted by businesses, professional bodies, members of parliament, civil society organisations, think tanks and academics. Where appropriate, the report sets out the UK Government’s approach to enlargement. It does not prejudge or predetermine proposals of either coalition party on the enlargement process or future accessions.
Feedback received
Detail of feedback received
The Enlargement report call for evidence was published in March 2014. We received a number of submissions from a broad range of stakeholders, both in writing and oral. We also conducted a literature review of relevant material.
Original consultation
Consultation description
The UK government is carrying out a review of the EU’s competences. The review will provide an informed and objective analysis of what EU membership means for the UK and our national interest. Full details of the review programme can be found in this detailed guide.
The Foreign and Commonwealth Office is leading on the report on EU Enlargement in the fourth semester of the review.
The Enlargement Report will assess the balance of competences between the EU and the UK in the field of EU enlargement. It will look at the impact of enlargement on UK interests, the development and effectiveness of the EU enlargement process, lessons learned from previous enlargements, the role of the Member States and EU Institutions in the process and the future challenges and opportunities that enlargement will bring.
Our public Call for Evidence (link above) sets out the scope of the review of the balance of competences in the area of EU enlargement. This is your opportunity to express your views. The report will be based on evidence submitted during the call for evidence period from 27 March to 30 June 2014.
How to respond
We welcome evidence from anyone, particularly those with relevant knowledge, expertise or experience. We are seeking contributions from academics, governments, companies, civil society, non-governmental organisations and the public, including via our online feedback forms.
The evidence should focus on the questions published at the back of the Call for Evidence. We will expect to publish your response and the name of your organisation unless you ask us not to (but please note that, even if you ask us to keep your contribution confidential, we might have to release it in response to a request under the Freedom of Information Act).
We will also be hosting a series of events in London and elsewhere in the UK and Europe between April and June to proactively seek evidence for the report. To register your interest in these events or if you have any other questions relating to the review please contact BOC.enlargement@fco.gov.uk
Please send your response via email (preferably as a Microsoft Word document) to BOC.enlargement@fco.gov.uk.
The closing date for the submission of responses is 30 June 2014. Responses can also be sent by post to:
Balance of Competences (Enlargement) Report
Western Balkans and Enlargement Department
Foreign and Commonwealth Office
King Charles Street
London
SW1A 2AH
We look forward to hearing from you.
