Doc. 8418
12 May 1999

Importance of a speedy and transparent European Union enlargement process for countries seeking membership

Motion for a resolution

presented by Mrs Freyberg and others

This motion has not been discussed in the Assembly and commits only the members who have signed it

1. For the countries in central and eastern Europe and the Baltic region, accession to the European Union forms an integral part of transition. The prospect of European Union membership serves as a major encouragement for candidate countries to adapt their legislation and economic life to meet EU requirements. It also has a highly positive influence on their democratic security, political culture and social cohesion. For transition to succeed with democracy strong and secure, stability in its broadest meaning is vital. EU enlargement is major factor in this process.

2. Public debate in the candidate countries is, however, still characterised by an often overly idealised vision of the European Union. In this situation, economic and social distress resulting from candidate countries' trying to adapt to EU requirements can easily provoke discontent among the public - especially as these requirements are very exacting to these countries' economic and social fabric and have to be met in an increasingly harsh climate of economic globalisation.

3. There is therefore an urgent need to improve communication to the public in the candidate countries as regards the complex economic, social and cultural challenges emanating from the preparations for EU membership. On the other hand, the EU has the duty to inform better governments and parliamentarians of the candidate countries on the different stages of inner EU reform.

4. The Assembly with this in mind calls on EU member states to prepare the ground for stronger economic growth through a new emphasis on structural reforms within the EU itself in such a way that enlargement is not delayed.

5. In this context, the Assembly welcomes the decision at the EU Summit in Berlin in March 1999 to shape more effective EU policies in various fields, and to provide the financial means for implementing them in a spirit of solidarity and burden-sharing, while ensuring necessary budgetary rigour. It is vital that the policy reforms agreed in Berlin succeed, and that their financial basis be secured also over the medium term. Only the early accomplishment of structural reforms will enable the European Union successfully to master the challenges of its future enlargement.

Signed : ¹

Freyberg, Poland, SOC

Behrendt, Germany, SOC

Colvin, United Kingdom, EDG

Degn, Denmark, SOC

Grenfell, United Kingdom, SOC

Gylys, Lithuania, SOC

Kittis, Cyprus, LDR

Lotz, Hungary, LDR

Obuljen, Croatia, EPP/CD

Solonari, Moldova, SOC

Wielowieyski, Poland, EPP/CD

¹        SOC: Socialist Group

      EPP/CD: Group of the European People’s Party

      EDG: European Democratic Group

      LDR : Liberal, Democratic and Reformers’ Group

      UEL: Group of the Unified European Left

      NR: not registered in a group