This blog post analyses the CJEU’s record sanctions against Hungary for migration law breaches and examines the unprecedented damages action challenging the Court.

The series of economic crises befalling the EU over the last decade have given rise to several crucial changes in the architecture of the Economic and Monetary Union (EMU).

Since Croatia’s 2013 accession, EU enlargement has stagnated. The idea of ‘gradual integration’ – involving candidates in EU policies before formal accession—seeks to revive the process. This essay introduces the concept, highlights its benefits, and focuses on its risks. It argues that meaningful enlargement requires deep institutional reforms, including clearer division of competences and a system of core mandatory policies alongside optional ones.