Ten years of enlargement: “The dream of Europe breathing with both its lungs came true”
Ten years have passed since the EU’s “big bang” enlargement of 2004, finally bringing together Eastern, Central and Western Europe. Ten years later, what is the verdict? We spoke to Jerzy Buzek, a Polish member of the EPP group who was the first EP president coming from the new member states. He talked about the concerns, hopes and achievements of a decade to remember.
On 1 May we celebrated the 10th anniversary of the EU's biggest enlargement ever. What does it mean for you personally?
I remember that very moment 10 years ago. It was a dream come true of a Europe breathing with both its lungs. It was an important day on our path to transformation and renewing our roots in Western civilisation. At the same moment it was a culmination of a long-term effort and a massive burst of energy. People around the country were celebrating this end to a long division.
We now have both the possibility and the responsibility to shape the European Union together, to work for our common well-being. Eastern Europe has taken on this role and it’s important to think about how we must now all carry it out together.
There were many who feared losing their independence or identity and some who played on those feelings to pursue their goals. What would you tell them now?
Citizens themselves have given the best answer to that. Among those who ten years ago became part of the common Europe, many might have become even more aware of their identity and feel no loss of independence. These last years have been a great lesson in presenting our views: It is through convincing arguments that you win in the European decision-making process and influence EU policy.
How do you see the position of the 2004 enlargement countries in the EU? What is their added value to the project? What kind of role lies ahead for them?
I must say that, to my great satisfaction, I scarcely hear about "new member states” around the corridors any more. It really is time everyone stopped calling us that.
We need to create the EU and not only "take part in it”, particularly when facing new geopolitical challenges and the weariness of EU integration visible in many western countries.
With the 2004 enlargement, the Eastern Partnership project surfaced and Euronest was created. We pay more attention to energy matters.
Should the EU pursue further enlargement? If so, who should be next and why?
The EU needs to keep the doors open. However, without meeting the criteria, with no prior, extensive negotiations and a readiness to adopt EU standards, it should be impossible to talk about accession. Otherwise it will be both – the state and the EU - who lose, unable to mutually profit from the integration.
