The National Convention on the European Union published its recommendations, which are the outcome of a national discussion on the topic of Ukraine’s integration into the EU, which was attended by representatives of the state administration, both chambers of the Parliament, economic and social partners, together with representatives of European institutions, the non-profit sector and academics.

The debate of the National Convention on the EU focused on three discussion questions: (1) How can the EU and the Czech Republic support Ukraine in its post-war reconstruction and reforms necessary for EU integration? (2) What tools does the EU have at its disposal for deeper economic and political integration of Ukraine? (3) Is the EU ready to fully integrate Ukraine and other candidate countries? Can it use the experience of previous enlargement rounds for this purpose?

Four recommendations emerged from the opinions presented and the subsequent discussion.

  1. The Czech Republic should strive to ensure that the European Union fulfils its financial promises to Ukraine in a timely and responsible manner, in particular with regard to macro-financial assistance, which should continue to be provided during 2023. The Czech Republic should furthermore strive for the most active and broadest possible involvement of Czech actors, including the private sector, in EU and national instruments to support Ukraine’s reconstruction and use its transformation experience. At the same time, the social dimension of reconstruction should not be neglected in the post-war reconstruction process, which represents an important element in preventing future social conflicts.
  2. It is in the EU’s interest to gradually integrate Ukraine into EU policies and institutions at this stage. The Czech Republic should continue to support the gradual integration of candidate countries and help build consensus on this issue within the EU.
  3. Strengthening strategic communication will be crucial for the successful integration of Ukraine and other countries into the EU. The benefits of Ukraine’s integration into the EU must be communicated consistently and clearly to both EU Member States and citizens.
  4. It will be important for the Czech Republic to define its own position on EU reform as a condition for of some Member States for its further enlargement. Thus, an inclusive national discussion on the Czech Republic’s position on the issue of internal EU reform should continue.