European Forum

Albania

Fri 27 Jan 2012 On 8 May relatively calm and dignified local elections were held in Albania, following a violent campaign during which some candidates were beaten up. Holding elections in accordance to democratic standards is seen by many observers as crucial to the country’s EU accession hopes. Read the country update for the latest developments. Read full update

Croatia

Mon 23 Jan 2012 On 9 December Croatia has signed the accession treaty with the EU in Brussels and will become the 28th EU member on July 1 2013. “Welcome to the European family”, President of the European Council Herman Van Rompuy stated, adding that despite the economic problems the EU is open for accession of Balkan countries. The outgoing Prime Minister Jadranka Kosor and President Ivo Josipovic signed the accession treaty. Kosor: “I would like to thank all who contributed to this solemn and historical day for Croatia. I am proud to be part of this historical moment.” Josipovic added that “after 20 years modern Croatia is becoming a part of the political and cultural area to which it has belonged for centuries. Croatia is not giving its sovereignty to the EU, it is investing in the EU.” On Sunday 22 January Croatians have voted for EU entrance in a referendum. 66.27% voted ‘ZA’(‘for’) EU entrance and 33.13% against. Considering the polls over the recent years, the percentage of ‘for’ votes is rather high. The turnout was low with 43.5%, compared to 54% at the general elections in December 2011. Read full update