The Europe Debate

Oct 9, 2026

Ukraine Is Closing the Gap on Accession, but Momentum Has Stalled

EPIC's Integration Readiness Index puts Ukraine at 5.85 out of 10 for 2025, up from 4.61 in 2023. Substance is catching up with procedure, but the momentum score fell as the clusters stayed shut.

The Europe Debate

Oct 8, 2026

Commission Offers Enlargement With an 'Insurance Policy' Against Backsliding

Marta Kos unveiled the Commission's plan to prepare the EU for new members: tougher penalties for backsliding, curbs on newcomers' vetoes and gradual early access to EU policies. Member states are already split on how far to go.

The Europe Debate

Oct 7, 2026

Draghi's Choice Between Paralysis and Integration, Scored

Mario Draghi said Europe must choose between paralysis, exit or integration. EPIC's Draghi Implementation Index shows which one the EU keeps picking: delivery happens when outside pressure is highest, and stalls when it is not.

The Europe Debate

Oct 3, 2026

Draghi said Europe needs €750–800bn a year. The bond market just made that harder

French yields are nearing 5% and euro-zone rates are heading up. EPIC's Draghi Implementation Index shows why that hurts: the capital markets reforms meant to raise private money for Europe's investment gap are among the slowest to be delivered.

The Europe Debate

Oct 1, 2026

Moldova is the Commission's best student, but still three points short

EPIC's Integration Readiness Index scores Moldova 5.87 out of 10 for 2025, up in each year of its series, yet about three points short of the Croatia 2011 benchmark.

The Europe Debate

Sep 30, 2026

The Commission's biggest Draghi portfolio is 2.7% delivered, and it is energy

EPIC's Draghi Implementation Index gives DG Energy 74 of the Draghi Report's recommendations, the largest load in the Commission. Two are fully implemented.