The European Union’s ongoing enlargement is not merely a regional project; it also serves the strategic interests of the United States. Nicholas Lokker emphasizes that expanding the EU not only fortifies peace in Europe but also enhances the Union’s role as a vital partner for Washington in navigating mounting global challenges.
This alignment between EU expansion and American strategic priorities raises the question: How can the U.S. enhance its involvement in the enlargement process? Veronica Anghel argues in her introductory piece that the European Union should view enlargement as a strategic necessity. This perspective holds true for the United States as well.
For over 75 years, American foreign policy has been deeply intertwined with Europe’s trajectory. Even though the U.S. has shifted its focus toward the Indo-Pacific, the importance of Europe remains undeniable in terms of American security and prosperity. The future success or failure of EU enlargement will significantly impact U.S. interests.
A vital aspect of EU enlargement is its role in fostering peace. As the European Union has expanded over the years, the continent has seen an increase in regional stability. The prospect of war among existing EU member states has become virtually unthinkable. Integrating current EU aspirants, particularly in the Western Balkans and Eastern Europe, promises to further enhance security across the region.
In the Western Balkans, where interethnic tensions linger, EU accession offers a unifying force, bringing diverse ethnic groups together under a common framework. Successful enlargement will also promote the development of full democracies in accession countries, reducing the likelihood of conflicts. Despite challenges such as democratic backsliding within the EU, the bloc maintains significant leverage to incentivize necessary political reforms.
For the United States, supporting EU enlargement translates into bolstered long-term peace and security in Europe. A peaceful Europe decreases the likelihood of requiring a large U.S. military presence, allowing American focus to shift toward the Indo-Pacific.
Enlargement also holds the promise of economic prosperity for Europe. Countries that have joined the EU have witnessed rapid economic growth, driven by single market integration, investment influx, and access to cohesion funding. While current EU members may face challenges in accommodating new members, the long-term trade and investment opportunities in an expanded single market often outweigh these costs.
A more prosperous Europe is furthermore advantageous for the United States, as Europe represents a key trade and investment partner. Enhanced European economic dynamics will create new openings for American exports and investment, fueling growth and job creation back home.
Particularly noteworthy is Ukraine’s potential role in EU enlargement. As the largest prospective member, Ukraine will be pivotal for U.S. interests, especially given the American economic stake in its mineral resources. Ensuring Ukraine’s economic stability and growth will require a significant reconstruction effort post-conflict. Facilitating Ukraine’s integration into the EU could unlock substantial funding for this purpose, thereby aiding its transformation.
Additionally, enlarging the EU can reinforce its geopolitical stature, which directly benefits the United States. While previous administrations may have viewed the EU as a competitor, current international challenges—including aggression from Russia, China, and others—necessitate robust transatlantic cooperation. By expanding its demographic and economic base, the EU can increase its influence and stability on the global stage, augmenting U.S. interests as well.
Despite a revival in the EU enlargement process following Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine, progress has noticeably stalled in recent months. The EU faces significant barriers to advancement, including necessary reforms within the Union and potential new members, as well as unresolved regional conflicts.
To align its interests with the enlargement process, the U.S. should take proactive steps to help dismantle these hurdles. A comprehensive strategy to facilitate EU enlargement becomes imperative, and recognizing this process as a strategic necessity will constitute a crucial first step.
In conclusion, acknowledging the interlinking of EU enlargement with U.S. interests underscores the collaborative potential between Europe and America. Facilitating this process not only contributes to regional stability and prosperity but also strengthens transatlantic ties in a shifting global landscape.
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