Most Central and Eastern European economies hope to join the EU by the year 2000+. What are the advantages and disadvantages of this for both the EU and the countries of Central and Eastern Europe?

The European Union (EU) is at present facing one of the most challenging and significant opportunities in it’s history, the issue of Central and Eastern enlargement. The implications of this unique expansion are very wide ranging, effecting the political, economic and social conditions of every state member and applicant of the EU. This enlargement has caused a lot a discussion among member states of the EU due to large amount applicant countries wanting to share the assumed benefits of EU membership. Some argue that the implications, such as stabilising eastern economies and enhancing peace and security for the EU will far outweigh the costs and drawbacks of the process. However, others argue that the only real beneficiaries are the Central and Eastern European Countries (CEEC’s) who gain access to EU funds and new trade markets at the expense of existing member states. Through the course of this essay, the various benefits and drawbacks of enlargement will be discussed and an...