 Environmental organisations in candidate countries (those applying to join the EU) and, increasingly, in the Western Balkans, regard the EEB as their main partner with a European focus.EEB's experience, relationships and position are of great value to these states in determining their own role in processes related to EU enlargement and the environment.Owing to the EEB's proactive involvement, its members from New Member States and those aspiring to join the EU are already numerous and are increasing.