Dimitrov, S: Integrating The Western Balkans Into The Eu

This book analyzes the degree of preparedness of the Western Balkans, specifically Croatia and the Republic of Macedonia, for EU membership. Taking a historical approach, it demonstrates that many of the region‘s contemporary problems are rooted in history, either as unresolved conflicts or as national identities built on historical falsifications. This book assesses the current levels of preparedness of Croatia and the Republic of Macedonia, and analyzes the possible outcomes of delaying EU integration or rushing it without enough qualitative reform, as well as the benefits of adequately executed enlargement. Critiquing the current methods of the enlargement process, which allow for too much leeway in the implementation of EU conditions, I offer policy proposals to improve the situation. This book should be especially useful to those analysts and students wishing to learn more about the Western Balkans, its EU integration, as well as to students of European Studies and International Relations, and to the general public.