EU enlargement and transatlantic relations: Background analyses

Abstract:

The background papers in this volume examine the internal and external dimensions of EU enlargement as it relates to the EU's future relations with the United States and US interests and policies. The papers explore the implications of an enlarged and reformed EU for the United States and for economic, political, and security co-operation between the EU and the United States. The papers examine two broad sets of issues related to the enlargement of the EU and US interests and policy. The first three papers focus primarily on the internal mechanisms and processes of the European Union as it tackles the dual challenges of enlargement and institutional reform. The remaining papers address the various external aspects of EU enlargement, including the financial and economic impact of EU enlargement on the United States and the ability of the EU to act as a unified and influential actor in the international system.

The analyses contained in this volume illuminate the challenges, risks, and opportunities that enlargement poses, both for the EU and the United States. If the EU successfully integrates the accession states and pushes ahead with reforms that enhance the EU's legitimacy and effectiveness, the result could be a stronger, cohesive, and more powerful European Union with expanded international influence and stature. Such an EU could be more assertive or even competitive in defending its interests vis-à-vis Washington. But other outcomes are also possible. The debate over war with Iraq revealed deep fissures, not only across the Atlantic but within Europe as well. Unless these intra-European differences can be bridged, efforts to forge a common international position and role for the EU could falter. A divided and fractured EU would be a less reliable partner for the United States and other nations.

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