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The Stabilisation and Association Process (SAP) is the policy framework that has been set up by the EU for countries of the Western Balkans. In accordance with the objective endorsed by the European Council in Feira in June 2000 and again in Thessaloniki in June 2003, the prospect of EU membership has been extended to all countries of the region.
The SAP has three aims:
The first phase of the SAP comprises various steps towards the establishment of a formal contractual relationship of each country with the EU in the form of a Stabilisation and Association Agreement (SAA). The conclusion of the SAA depends on whether the country has made sufficient progress in terms of political and economic reform and has demonstrated sufficient administrative capacity. The SAA sets out formal mechanisms and agreed benchmarks to assist signatory countries in meeting EU standards, including the acquis, and international standards.
The second phase of the SAP - negotiation and implementation of the SAA - establishes the framework and provides signatory countries with the means to carry out reforms leading to full association with the EU. The SAA mechanisms also allow the EU to help countries set priorities and shape reforms. Implementation of the SAA is a prerequisite for eligibility as an EU candidate country.
While Croatia and the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia have been granted candidate country status, their preparations for EU entry are still guided by the SAP. The other Western Balkan countries (Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, and Serbia including Kosovo under UNSCR 1244) are potential candidate countries. Albania signed an SAA with the EU in May 2006.
For more information on the Stabilisation and Association Process (SAP), consult the Europa website.
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