EU Eastern Enlargement Jean Monnet cenTre of Excellence

forthcoming

The ENTENTE project will establish a Jean Monnet Centre of Excellence dedicated to the future of EU enlargement, with a particular focus on Ukraine's accession. In collaboration with the European University Institute, Kyiv School of Economics, and CEU Democracy Institute, ENTENTE will bridge the gap between academic research and policymaking, developing a novel and comprehensive framework for assessing candidate readiness. This framework will move beyond the traditional emphasis on acquis communautaire alignment to incorporate a more holistic evaluation, encompassing crucial elements such as the rule of law, anti-corruption measures, institutional capacity, and public support. This innovative approach will recognize that true preparedness for EU membership requires more than just legal compliance. To support Ukraine's accession process specifically, ENTENTE will provide targeted training to Ukrainian policymakers, NGOs, and civil society actors. This training will equip them with the practical skills and knowledge necessary to navigate the complexities of EU membership negotiations and implementation. ENTENTE will also foster evidence-based policymaking by bridging the gap between academia and policy. Through interdisciplinary collaboration and dialogue, the project will ensure that research insights directly inform policy decisions, leading to more effective and impactful outcomes. Recognizing the unique challenges faced by Ukraine despite its wartime resilience, ENTENTE will complement existing EU initiatives by ensuring that financial support is closely linked to sustainable democratic reforms. Aligned with the Erasmus+ 2025 priorities, ENTENTE will foster innovation and regional cooperation. By integrating research, training, and policy insights, ENTENTE will enhance the EU’s capacity to manage the complexities of future enlargements while safeguarding democratic integrity and contributing to a more robust and resilient European Union.