EU Proposes 15-Year Probation Period for New Member States to Safeguard Democratic Values

The European Commission has proposed a 15-year probation period for any new member state joining the European Union. This measure aims to protect the EU from leaders who might violate democratic values, with Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kos emphasizing its role in preventing situations akin to Hungary under Viktor Orbán. During this probationary period, new states could face the loss of voting rights or EU funding if they breach fundamental democratic principles.