In brief
On November 7, 2026, Vienna announced that Austria will chair the Berlin Process in 2027 to accelerate the European Union integration of the six Western Balkan countries. Foreign Minister Beate Meinl‑Reisinger emphasized a gradual accession model that rewards reforms with greater market access. Austria will focus on economic, energy, infrastructure and security cooperation to strengthen regional stability.
On November 7, 2026 Vienna announced that Austria will chair the Berlin Process in 2027, a platform that promotes cooperation in the Western Balkans and helps the six Balkan states move toward European Union membership.
The Berlin Process, launched in 2014 by Germany, is a non‑binding forum that brings together the six countries of Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo, Montenegro, North Macedonia and Serbia to coordinate policy and projects in key areas such as the economy, energy and infrastructure.
Foreign Minister Beate Meinl‑Reisinger said, “A credible prospect of EU accession for the Western Balkan countries is both a security policy necessity and an economic opportunity for Austria.”
She added that Austria would promote a gradual accession model, granting the Balkan states more access to the EU single market in return for progress on reforms and a stronger rule of law. The focus will be on improving economic ties, energy security, infrastructure development and regional security cooperation to build a stable foundation for EU integration.
By taking the lead, Austria hopes to reinforce its role as a reliable partner for the region, encouraging political and economic reforms while offering tangible benefits that could expedite each country's path toward EU membership.
