EU Enlargement: Strength or Strategic Mistake? | Warsaw Debate

As Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine continues to reshape Europe’s security landscape, the European Union faces a historic question: should it continue to expand, or consolidate before admitting new members?

In this edition of Warsaw Debate, hosts Grzegorz Nawrocki and Małgorzata Bonikowska examine the motion:
"The European Union should not enlarge."
Supporters argue that admitting countries such as Ukraine, Moldova and the Western Balkan states would strengthen European security and stability. Critics warn that further enlargement could deepen divisions, strain EU institutions and create new economic challenges. The debate includes questions from the studio audience, followed by a vote on the motion.

Main speakers:
Krzysztof Bosak – Deputy Speaker of the Polish Parliment
Jadwiga Emilewicz – The Sobieski Institute, former Deputy Prime Minister of Poland
Czesław Bielecki – Former Member of the Polish Parliament
Jacopo Lotti – Erasmus+ student, Political Science, University of Siena

Expert commentary:
Scott Lucas – Professor of U.S. and International Politics, Clinton Institute, University College Dublin
Originally scheduled to join the debate, former Ukrainian Deputy Minister of Economy Alexander Romănishyn withdrew from participation at the last minute following the diplomatic dispute between Poland and Ukraine triggered by President Karol Nawrocki’s decision to revoke President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s Order of the White Eagle, Poland’s highest state distinction.

Time stamps:
00:00 Should the EU Stop Expanding?
04:35 Why Europe Is Being Forced to Decide Now
08:20 Internal Reform or the Enlargement?
11:40 Can the EU Handle Ukraine's Membership?
14:58 "The EU Isn't Ready for Enlargement"
16:55 "Only Ukraine Can Make Europe Stronger"
19:20 Security, Russia and the Future of Europe
23:50 The Biggest Obstacle to Ukraine Joining the EU
32:50 Can a 35-Member EU Actually Work?
36:20 If Europe Doesn't Expand, Russia Wins?
39:00 Could Brexit Happen Again?
42:20 Scott Lucas: Europe Cannot Close the Door on Ukraine
47:20 Audience Verdict: More Doubts About Enlargement

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