https://www.live-feeds.com/feed/eu-commission-throws-down-the-gauntlet-to-member-states-on-reforming-the-blocContinuously updated, source-cited coverage. https://www.live-feeds.com/feed/eu-commission-throws-down-the-gauntlet-to-member-states-on-reforming-the-blochttps://www.live-feeds.com/feed/eu-commission-throws-down-the-gauntlet-to-member-states-on-reforming-the-bloc#u113013Sat, 10 Oct 2026 01:49:21 +0000The European Commission is proposing a 15-year probation period for new EU member states to prevent democratic backsliding. The plan aims to protect the EU from undemocratic leaders like Viktor Orbán. The Commission also suggests reducing the number of commissioners and moving away from unanimity to prepare the EU for 30 or more members. This comes as the EU seeks to reform and expand, with several countries hoping to join.Why it mattersThe EU has been grappling with issues of democratic backsliding and the rise of authoritarian leaders in some member states. The proposed probation period and