Enlargement. Extending European values and standards to more countries

Enlargement serves the interests of Member States as well as acceding countries. It makes Europe a safer and more prosperous place, in particular through its promotion of democracy and fundamental freedoms, the rule of law and the single market. The benefits of the single market are considerable: economic growth leading to higher living standards, safer consumer goods, lower prices and greater choice in sectors such as telecommunications, banking and air travel, to name but a few.

These benefits have been enjoyed by an increasing number of people as the EU has grown in size. The EU is above all a community of values. We are a family of democratic European countries committed to working together for peace and freedom, prosperity and social justice. And we defend these values. We seek to deepen the solidarity between the peoples of Europe, while respecting and preserving our diversity.

This publication is a part of a series that explains what the EU does in different policy areas, why the EU is involved and what the results are.