MECHANISMS OF INTERACTION BETWEEN UKRAINE AND EUROPEAN INSTITUTIONS IN THE CONTEXT OF THE EXPERIENCE OF THE WESTERN BALKAN STATES

Abstract

The article analyzes the mechanisms of interaction between Ukraine and European institutions in the context of the experience of the Western Balkans states. It is determined that the European integration process is based on a combination of institutional, organizational, procedural, financial and security mechanisms that ensure the coordination of reforms, negotiation support and implementation of the EU acquis. It is found that the Western Balkans states are characterized by the formation of specialized negotiation structures, interdepartmental working groups, consultative platforms and mechanisms for involving civil society in the preparation and monitoring of European integration decisions. The institutional models of Serbia, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina and Kosovo are considered, which demonstrate different levels of effectiveness of the negotiation process, EU financial support and security cooperation. The specifics of the Ukrainian model of cooperation with the European Union, based on the Association Agreement, the activities of the Association Council, the Association Committee, the Parliamentary Association Committee and the Civil Society Platform, are characterized. It is proved that the application of the updated EU enlargement methodology towards Ukraine brings its negotiation model closer to the Western Balkan experience; however, the conditions of martial law, security threats and the scale of reforms require an adapted approach. Conclusions are drawn on the need to strengthen institutional coordination, synchronize reforms with EU financial support, expand civil society participation and integrate the security component into Ukraine’s European integration policy.