Introduction

This study addresses many of the key issues raised by the increasing expansion of the EU. Analysing the traditional Community method of expansion and finding many shortcomings with its ability to handle future enlargement, Chris Preston explores:

• the past experience of enlargement and the lessons that can be drawn
• the impact that enlargement has had on EU policies, institutions and the new member themselves
• the likely future developments in the enlargement process

Focusing on the Mediterranean, Central and Eastern Europe and the former Soviet countries, this book will be essential reading for students, specialists and practitioners of European Politics.