The enlargement of the European Union

Book abstract:

The imminent enlargement of the EU represents an almost doubling in the number of Member States, and perhaps for that aspect alone would be worthy of a volume such as this. However the process has implications other than size and the papers presented in this book address some of them.

Following the introduction, chapter two explores the 'pre-accession' issues which prompt change in both the applicant states as well as the EU itself. Closer examination of the pre-accession aspects is given in chapter three emphasising the need for effective implementation of the acquis. Differentiation is a fundamental principle of pre-accession and in chapter four this is examined in the context of the similarities and the differences between the Central and Eastern European candidate countries. Chapter five addresses the importance that conditionality has assumed not only in the EU enlargement strategy but also in its foreign policy. This is particularly evident in the EU's relations with the Balkan countries and this is examined in chapter six. The enlarged EU will represent an even bigger trading region and one that will carry great influence in dealings with other market groupings/partners. This trade aspect is explored in chapter seven. Undoubtedly these strains in the relations with external partners/actors represent a real challenge to the continuing efficacy and progress of the EU but the internal strains may be even greater. Chapter eight looks at some of those internal strains with particular focus on the EU constitution and the decision making processes.

The book will interest students, academics, and policy researchers with an interest in European Union studies and enlargement issues.

Marise Cremona is Professor of European Commercial Law at Queen Mary University of London.