“The Expansion Equation: Should EU Enlargement Be Made Easier?” panel discussion gathered experts and policymakers for a timely conversation on the promises and complexities of joining the European Union. Panelists included Sargis Khandanyan (Chair of the Standing Committee on Foreign Relations, National Assembly of Armenia), Julius Pranevičius (Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Lithuania), Rick Fawn (Professor of International Relations, University of St Andrews, UK), and Tatiana Turculet (Compliance Officer, European Investment Bank Group, Luxembourg). The discussion was moderated by Rachel Rizzo, Senior Fellow at the Europe Center of the Atlantic Council.
Sargis Khandanyan emphasized the importance of the enlargement process for countries like Armenia, noting: “For us, EU integration is not just a policy goal—it’s a transformative journey toward stronger institutions, justice, and resilience.” Julius Pranevičius acknowledged the frustrations of long-standing candidate countries, while reaffirming Lithuania’s support for an enlargement process that is both fair and forward-looking.
Panelists underscored that the EU is more than economic integration; it is a values-based community rooted in democracy, solidarity, and the rule of law. Rick Fawn stated: “EU membership is a generational investment—it changes societies, especially for youth and marginalized communities.” Tatiana Turculet added that accession is not only about ticking boxes but about embracing the spirit of European unity: “The process itself must empower reform and inspire trust—both within and beyond candidate countries.”
