The history of the European Union is one of continuous enlargement and deepening. However, in recent years, the question has increasingly arisen: do enlargement and deepening work against each other, or are they complementary processes? From an Eastern European perspective, having personally experienced the transformative power of EU accession, this question is not merely theoretical but deeply personal. The EU is not just an organization; it is an idea that embodies the ideals of peace, democracy, and economic prosperity. Yet, as the Union opens its doors to new members, it becomes increasingly important not to lose sight of its core values and rules. Striking a balance between enlargement and deepening is therefore not just a strategic but an existential issue.
For Eastern Europe, EU accession was not merely a formal legal act but the beginning of a comprehensive social and economic transformation. Joining the EU allowed countries in the region to access one of the world's largest markets, boosting their economic growth and competitiveness. EU funds supported infrastructure development, education, and healthcare, which were essential for building modern, open societies.But EU accession brought more than just material benefits. The Union's values—democracy, human rights, and the rule of law—deeply influenced Eastern European societies. The pre-accession conditions, such as reducing corruption, establishing an independent judiciary, and ensuring a free press, contributed to making the region's countries more stable and just. On a personal level, this meant that people began to believe in their right to a fair life and that governments must be held accountable.
EU enlargement remains a pressing issue today. The accession aspirations of Ukraine, Moldova, and other Eastern European countries are not only of geopolitical significance but also represent a moral obligation for the EU. The war in Ukraine has made it clear that the EU is not just an economic and political organization but also a value system that offers protection and stability to its members. Ukraine's example shows that EU accession is not just a legal process but also a beacon of hope, guiding a country and its people toward democratic and economic development.However, enlargement cannot be an end in itself. The accession of new members can only be successful if they are able to adhere to and internalize the EU's fundamental values and rules. The Union cannot allow enlargement to weaken its institutional framework or undermine the principles on which it is built. The rule of law, the fight against corruption, and the functioning of democratic institutions are not just formal requirements but the essence of the EU.
Alongside enlargement, the deepening of the EU is also inevitable. The Union faces numerous internal challenges that make deepening indispensable. Reforming the eurozone, managing migration, combating climate change, and navigating the digital transition are all areas where the EU needs stronger and more effective institutional frameworks. Deepening does not only mean closer cooperation among member states but also reinforcing the Union's values and rules.However, deepening must not be the enemy of enlargement. The EU must find a balance between the two processes. Enlargement and deepening are not mutually exclusive but can be complementary. The accession of new members can contribute to increasing the Union's economic and political influence, while deepening ensures that the EU can effectively respond to global challenges.
The future of the EU depends on striking a harmonious balance between enlargement and deepening. Enlargement creates opportunities for the Union to expand its influence and stabilize neighboring regions. Deepening, on the other hand, ensures that the EU can preserve its values and function effectively in an increasingly complex world.From an Eastern European perspective, EU accession was not just a historical moment but an ongoing process in which adherence to EU values and rules remains central. The EU must not forget that enlargement can only be successful if new members are able to embrace and uphold the Union's core principles. At the same time, deepening must aim to strengthen the Union, not deepen divides among member states.The future of the EU, therefore, does not lie in choosing between enlargement or deepening but in finding a harmonious balance between the two. Only in this way can the European Union remain not just an economic and political force but also an idea that embodies the ideals of peace, democracy, and prosperity.