Does EU Membership Facilitate Convergence? The Experience of the EU's Eastern Enlargement - Volume I: Overall Trends and Country Experiences

This edited volume examines how EU membership influenced the convergence process of member countries in the Baltics, Central-Eastern, and South-Eastern Europe, as well as countries seeking future EU membership. It explores whether these countries are converging faster than their fundamentals and global trends would suggest due to EU membership's tighter institutional and political anchorage.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 328 pages
Publication date: 12 February 2022
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland AG

This edited volume delves into the profound impact of EU membership on the convergence process of member countries in the Baltics, Central-Eastern, and South-Eastern Europe. It also examines the potential of countries aspiring to join the EU in shaping their economic and political trajectories. The remarkable pace of convergence among significant groups of low- and medium-income countries has reached unprecedented levels on a global scale. Contributions from esteemed lead researchers in the field explore whether EU membership has played a catalytic role in accelerating these countries' convergence, surpassing the expectations based on their fundamental characteristics and global trends.

The EU's strong institutional and political framework provides a solid foundation for convergence. The membership has facilitated the adoption of common policies, regulations, and standards, promoting economic integration and reducing trade barriers. This has facilitated the flow of capital, goods, services, and people, fostering economic growth and reducing poverty in the region.

Furthermore, EU membership has facilitated the exchange of knowledge, experience, and best practices among member countries. Through bilateral and multilateral cooperation, countries have been able to learn from each other's successes and failures, fostering a culture of innovation and continuous improvement. This has contributed to the development of a skilled workforce, improved infrastructure, and enhanced productivity, ultimately driving convergence.

However, it is important to note that the convergence process is not without its challenges. Different countries within the EU may have varying levels of development, economic structures, and cultural heritage, which can impact their ability to converge. Additionally, external factors such as global economic trends, geopolitical tensions, and domestic policies can also exert a significant influence on the convergence process.

As countries continue to navigate the path toward EU membership, they must address these challenges and seize the opportunities presented by the EU. This includes implementing reforms to promote economic diversification, enhancing infrastructure development, and fostering social inclusion. By doing so, countries can further accelerate their convergence and position themselves as strong economic partners in the global arena.

In conclusion, this edited volume provides valuable insights into the complex relationship between EU membership and convergence in the region. It highlights the positive impact of EU membership on economic growth, social development, and political stability. As the EU continues to expand its membership, it will play an increasingly important role in shaping the economic and political future of the region and beyond.

Weight: 470g
Dimension: 210 x 148 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030576882
Edition number: 1st ed. 2021