Visegrad’s place in the EU since accession in 2004: “Western” perceptions
Visegrad’s place in the EU since accession in 2004: “Western” perceptions

Summary/Abstract: Based on semi-structured interviews with regionally-assigned foreign diplomats, this study evaluates external perceptions of the strengths, weaknesses, achievements and further potential of Visegrad cooperation in the European Union since the four countries’ accession in 2004. Those perceptions are then contrasted against official Visegrad declarations and academic and media commentaries. The study concludes that Visegrad cooperation is strongly recognized among Western governments for its capacity both within the EU (and beyond it); however, mismatches arise between what Visegrad’s annual programs and implementation reports consider to be achievements and ambitions and those for which it receives outside recognition and commendation. A concluding section offers policy recommendations based on these findings.

• Details
• Contents