Eastern enlargement of the European Union : "historically unique" or "heavy burden"
Author
Önkol, Caner
Advisor
Tuna, Gülgün
Date
2002Publisher
Bilkent University
Language
English
Type
ThesisItem Usage Stats
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Abstract
This study analyses the possible costs and benefits of the enlargement of the
European Union towards the countries of Central and Eastern Europe. The dissolution
of the Soviet Union, thus the break up of the Warsaw Pact and Comecon as well as
the fall of the Berlin Wall marked the end of a historical era in Europe. From then on,
Europe is no longer divided into two poles in terms of ideological differences. With
this historical change in the political and ideological structure, there appears an
opportunity to establish a new European order. This thesis argues that enlargement of
the European Union towards the east seems to be a step towards creating security and
stability beyond the present borders of Europe. Each enlargement changes the size,
geography, composition, scope, and direction of the Union. As has been seen from the
previous enlargement processes, the EU acts as a magnet for surrounding states, many
of whom have determined that the benefits of membership exceed the costs of nonmembership.
Since the EU decides which applicant states join, and under what
conditions, it has enormous influence over the fates of nations. This study argues that
the coming enlargement seems to be “historically unique” and probably the “largest
challenge”, which the Union has ever faced. Therefore, the possible opportunities of
enlargement also carry some risks as well as political challenges. A complete
integration of the countries from Central and Eastern Europe with the European Union
will probably be another momentous process in those countries’ history after their
withdrawal from the Soviet sphere of influence.