A new publication supported by ERSTE Foundation explores how EU candidate countries can prepare for the Union’s rapidly evolving digital rulebook ahead of accession. The report offers practical models for aligning with the EU digital acquis and examines the links between digital regulation, enlargement policy, institutional preparedness, and democratic resilience.

Focusing on key EU legislation such as the DSA, DMA, AI Act, GDPR, and EMFA, it addresses the challenge facing candidate countries that must prepare to implement these regulations even though they formally apply only upon EU membership.

Drawing on examples from the Western Balkans, Ukraine, and Moldova, the publication outlines pathways for building compatible institutions, adapting legal frameworks, and strengthening governance capacities in the digital sphere before accession takes place. The full report is available online here.