In Defence of EU Enlargement

In this policy paper, Fredrik Segerfeldt defends the enlargement process of the EU. He shows the benefits of this process for Europe as a whole and argues for further enlargement. This message is important, especially because politicians so far have been unsuccessful in explaining the benefits derived from enlargement to the European public.

The Polish plumber has become a symbol of the criticism against EU enlargement. But EU enlargements have produced great benefits for all of Europe. The enlargement with twelve countries in Easter and Central Europe has been of particular importance.

The new member states have been economically dynamic and their reform efforts have provided valuable institutional competition in Europe. European economic freedom has increased, and enlargement has boosted growth throughout the EU.

The enlargement process has contributed to stability, the rule of law, democratic institutions and market economy in several former European dictatorships. This process must be given full support and high priority as it continues with the Balkan states and Turkey.