Question
9. Why have Eastern European countries been slower to join the EU?
Answer
4
(327 Votes)
April
Professional · Tutor for 6 years
Answer
The main reasons why Eastern European countries have been slower to join the EU are the time needed for political and economic restructuring after the fall of communism, and the criteria set by the EU that must be achieved prior to joining.
Explanation
The slowness of Eastern European countries in joining the EU is related to politics, economics, and social factors. After the fall of the USSR, many of these countries had to navigate a politically and economically challenging transition from communist states to democratic nations with market economies. This process could not be completed overnight, and took a considerable amount of restructuring and reform. Further, potential EU membership also requires democratic institutions that adhere to rule of law, effective market structures, and a track record of stable macroeconomic performance—more stringent conditions that were defined in 1993 by the EU’s Copenhagen Criteria. Countries must meet those criteria before joining the EU.