The countries that joined the EU in 2004 have experienced significant economic growth and development since their accession. Their GDPs have increased, agricultural production has tripled, and unemployment rates have been halved. These positive outcomes were celebrated on May Day in 2004, as the EU marked its 20th anniversary of eastward enlargement, with ten new countries joining the Union, eight of which were former Eastern Bloc countries.
In a recent speech, President of the EU Commission Ursula von der Leyen highlighted the importance of the eastward enlargement as a turning point in European history. She emphasized that it brought stability and prosperity to Europe, preventing former Eastern bloc countries from falling back under Russia’s sphere of influence. However, she also acknowledged that challenges lie ahead for future EU enlargements.
One potential candidate for the next round of EU enlargement is Ukraine. However, there are concerns about the economic implications for current member states and the need for changes in decision-making methods within the EU. The author emphasizes the importance of upholding Western values, rule of law, and freedom of speech in future enlargements to ensure the success of the European project.
The integration of East and West has brought stability and prosperity to Europe, preventing former Eastern bloc countries from slipping back into Russia’s sphere of influence. This process has been seen as a positive impact on these countries’ economies with increased gross national products, tripled agricultural production and halved unemployment rates during their membership.
The 20th anniversary of EU’s eastward enlargement was celebrated on May Day in 2004 with ten new countries joining the Union. Of these ten new member states, eight were former Eastern Bloc countries.
President Ursula von der Leyen referred to this event as a new era for Europe during her recent speech.
While this integration has brought stability and prosperity to Europe it also brings challenges ahead for future EU enlargements. One potential candidate is Ukraine who could be a part of this process.
However concerns exist about its economic implications for current member states and need for changes in decision-making methods within the EU.
It is important to note that upholding Western values such as rule of law and freedom
