EXTERNAL DIFFERENTIATION AND EU VALUES AFTER WITHDRAWAL FROM THE EU IN COMPARISON TO THE STATUS OF THE STATES UNDER ENLARGEMENT POLICY
EXTERNAL DIFFERENTIATION AND EU VALUES AFTER WITHDRAWAL FROM THE EU IN COMPARISON TO THE STATUS OF THE STATES UNDER ENLARGEMENT POLICY

Summary/Abstract: Differentiated integration shapes a myriad of EU policies, the overall institutionalization and interaction with third countries whereas EU values and principles govern all integrative processes. In this paper, we will focus on the external differentiation i.e. the various levels of participation of non-members under enlargement policy in EU integrative processes as an attempt to estimate the possible roles a state may assume post-membership, especially in view of the shared European values and principles governing EU law. Having in mind the current poly-crises in the EU and the recent withdrawal under article 50 of the Treaty on the European Union, advocating for stronger integration at this moment may appear anachronistic. However, the future may not be so bleak for those proposing further integration even in times of crisis if the notion of differentiation is reconsidered. Observing external differentiation in view of the enlargement countries, the Union’s closest partners and neighbours, we can better understand the future position of a former member. With this, arguably inevitable, external differentiation, even countries that withdraw from the EU will have a crucial role in preserving the core values. In other words, it may not be entirely accurate to claim that only EU members can contribute to further integration. Third countries, through their partnerships, participation in numerous policies and implementation of EU law also have a significant role in the functioning of the EU and the protection of its values.

• Details
• Contents