In light of the results achieved by Moldova, and of the ongoing reform efforts, the Commission has recommended that the Council opens accession negotiations. Furthermore, the Commission recommends that Council adopts the negotiating frameworks once Moldova has adopted certain key measures. The Commission stands ready to report to Council by March 2024 on the progress relating to these measures.

Moldova has made important progress on meeting the 9 steps set out in the Commission Opinion on Moldova's EU membership application. It launched a comprehensive justice reform following the Venice Commission recommendations, including by evaluating prominent judges and prosecutors. The country reformed its anti-corruption bodies and increased the number of investigations and convictions in corruption cases. Moldova adopted a deoligarchisation action plan, which it implements following set timelines. New legislation to set up a confiscation mechanism helps fight organised crime. The country adopted a public administration strategy and follows the reform at all levels. It worked to reform its public finance management and adopted legislation to reform public procurement. Moldova enhanced the participation of civil society in the decision-making process and has strengthened the protection of human rights. 

Next steps

It is now for the Council to consider today's recommendations of the Commission and take decisions on the steps ahead in the enlargement process.

For detailed findings and recommendations see:

Moldova: MEMO; Report; Country factsheet

Congratulations to all Moldovan people and the Moldovan government: you have made remarkable efforts to progress on the path towards the EU. The European Commission today recommends starting accession negotiations with #Moldova. Moldova belongs to the EU. The EU's door is open.

Josep Borrell Fontelles, High Representative of the EU for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy/Vice-President of EU Commission