The European Union is considering stripping new member states of veto rights for several years after accession as part of efforts to speed up enlargement and address political concerns within the bloc.

Axar.az reports, citing The Guardian, under proposals being examined by the European Commission, future members such as Moldova and Western Balkan states could join the EU without immediately gaining full voting rights on key areas, including foreign policy and taxation decisions that currently require unanimity.

The idea is aimed at easing resistance from sceptical member states, including France, where political opposition to further enlargement has grown ahead of upcoming elections. Officials say the measure could help prevent gridlock in an EU potentially expanded to more than 30 members.

The proposal has been discussed in the context of accelerating accession talks with candidate countries, particularly Montenegro, which is seen as a frontrunner for membership later this decade.

EU officials argue that temporary safeguards could help ensure new members align fully with EU rules before gaining full veto power, though critics acknowledge the plan would be legally sensitive and politically controversial.

Enlargement momentum has increased since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, with the EU aiming to admit new members by 2030. However, leaders remain divided over how to reform decision-making structures to accommodate a larger bloc without weakening its ability to act.

Supporters of the idea say it could prevent future paralysis caused by individual states blocking collective decisions, while opponents warn it could create a two-tier system within the EU.

The proposals remain under discussion and would require agreement from all existing member states.