Approximation of Laws under the European Neighbourhood Policy: The Challenges that Lie Ahead

Abstract:

The initial, ambitious agenda of the European Neighbourhood Policy (ENP), coupled with its ten years of operation, raised expectations for comprehensive approximation with resultant significant socio-economic reforms. Yet the initial high hopes for a systematic regulatory and legislative alignment were not realized. The article's purpose is to offer a typology and analysis of the various factors that render it more difficult to attain this strategic objective of the ENP, underscoring the limits of the Law in serving a transformative role.