The Influence of the EU Expansion on the Dynamics of the Romanian-Hungarian Border
The Influence of the EU Expansion on the Dynamics of the Romanian-Hungarian Border

Summary/Abstract: The European Union’s (EU) enlargements in 2004 and 2007 had profound implications for the geopolitical landscape of Europe, particularly for the Romanian-Hungarian border. This study examines the transformative impact of EU expansion on the dynamics of the border, highlighting the main shifts in terms of security, governance and cross-border cooperation between the two countries. Drawing upon historical data, utilising literature analysis and analysing official documents, the present article showcases how European integration influenced the management and the perception of the Romanian-Hungarian border. The study highlights how EU expansion acted as a catalyst, not only in mitigating prior challenges but also in redefining the Romanian-Hungarian border. No longer a mere boundary and demarcation line, the border has evolved into a zone of cooperative engagement and mutual understanding. While acknowledging that certain challenges persist, the article concludes that the EU’s expansion has played a pivotal role in reshaping the narrative surrounding the Romanian-Hungarian border. The border is no longer a source of division but a conduit for collaboration, reflecting the broader ethos of unity and cooperation within the European Union. This analysis contributes to a nuanced understanding of the multifaceted consequences of EU enlargement on cross-border relationships in the Central and Eastern European region.

• Details
• Contents