In a recent op-ed for EUobserver, Laszlo Bruszt, director of the Central European University Democracy Institute in Budapest, delves into the complexities of Ukraine’s potential accession to the European Union.
Ukraine faces the formidable task of implementing approximately 100,000 pages of the EU’s acquis communautaire—the comprehensive body of EU laws and regulations. Bruszt warns that without careful management, this process could lead to significant social, economic, and political repercussions for both Ukraine and existing EU member states.
Drawing lessons from the EU’s previous enlargement, Bruszt highlights the emergence of nationalist and illiberal forces in new member states five to eight years post-accession. He emphasizes that the manner in which economic chapters are implemented during the accession process can either foster a robust middle class or result in an exploited working poor.
To mitigate potential pitfalls, Bruszt advocates for a strategic approach that couples post-war reconstruction with the adoption of EU rules. He points to the Ukraine Facility, the EU’s €50bn support mechanism launched in March 2024, as a step in the right direction. This initiative aims to enhance the capacities of various state and non-state actors in Ukraine to align with EU standards while maximizing developmental benefits.
Bruszt concludes by urging the EU to integrate Ukraine into emerging EU-wide industrial policies, thereby increasing mutual gains and improving the prospects of Ukraine’s successful membership bid.
For a comprehensive analysis, read the full op-ed on EUobserver.