Is Ukraine an EU country?

Satunnainen

Ukraine is not currently a member of the European Union (EU). However, Ukraine has expressed a strong interest in joining the EU and has taken significant steps towards membership. In this article, we look at the relationship between Ukraine and the EU, Ukraine’s efforts to join the EU, and the process that is still underway.

The relationship between Ukraine and the EU

Ukraine and the EU have signed several agreements that strengthen the cooperation between them. One of the most significant is the association agreement signed in 2014, which includes the Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Area (DCFTA). This agreement has brought economic and political reforms in Ukraine and brought the country closer to the EU.

Ukraine’s efforts to join the EU

Ukraine has expressed a clear desire to join the EU. In 2019, a reference to the pursuit of EU membership was added to the Constitution of Ukraine. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyi has also repeatedly emphasized the importance of the country’s EU membership.

EU membership process

Achieving EU membership is a multi-step process that requires the applicant country to meet several criteria. These include, among others:

  • Political criteria: stable institutions that guarantee democracy, the rule of law, human rights and respect for minorities.
  • Economic criteria: a functioning market economy and the ability to cope with competitive pressures and market forces in the EU.
  • Acquis criteria: ability to adopt and implement EU legislation and rules.

Ukraine has made progress in meeting these criteria, but there is still a lot to be done. For example, fighting corruption and reforming the judiciary are key areas where additional measures are needed.

Future prospects

Although Ukraine is not yet a member of the EU, its efforts and progress are significant. The EU has expressed its support for Ukraine’s European aspirations and offers financial and technical assistance to implement the reforms. However, Ukraine’s EU membership is a long-term goal that requires constant commitment and cooperation from both parties.

You can read more information about the relations between Ukraine and the EU, for example, on the official website of the European Union and from the website of the Council of Europe.

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