Would the EU Allow Romania’s Membership and Free Movement in Hindsight?

The European Union (EU) has undergone numerous changes and expansions since its inception in 1957. Romania, along with Bulgaria, officially joined the EU in 2007 after a prolonged application and accession process. In the context of current discussions, it is intriguing to consider how the EU might have viewed Romania’s membership and the principles of free movement in the past if the decision was reconsidered with the benefit of hindsight.

The Historical Context

Romania officially applied for membership in June 1993 and became an Associated State of the EU in 1995. It later transitioned to an Accession Candidate in 2002 and an Accessing Country in 2004. Following the completion of accession negotiations, Romania officially joined the EU on January 1, 2007. This timeline reflects the rigorous process through which Romania had to adhere to numerous political, economic, and social reforms to join the EU.

The 'What If' Scenario

Reflecting on the situation with the benefit of present-day knowledge, we can propose several scenarios of how EU members might have viewed Romania's application and subsequent membership. The common rationale often cited is the economic and demographic implications of EU membership.

Market Size and Productivity:

Would EU members still consider a product market of about 18 million people as attractive for their businesses? Would the continuing influx of workers, both skilled and unskilled, continue to be seen as beneficial when these workers accept lower wages and are willing to perform jobs that local workers might not?

These considerations highlight the complex interplay between economic benefits and the social and political landscape of the EU.

Cultural and Social Attitudes

The issue of free movement often arises due to cultural and social sentiments. Some proponents of free movement within the EU support the idea of a unified market and workforce, while others may feel apprehensive about the demographic changes it brings. This tension highlights deeper issues of identity and integration within the EU framework.

A Critique of EU Foundations

Some critics argue that the EU's structure and identity are based more on economic interests rather than a cohesive cultural or ideological foundation. This perspective suggests that the initial focus on economic integration might have overshadowed the need for a more inclusive and unified European identity.

As an example, the inclusion of certain regions or countries within Germany or other EU member states is often seen as a natural extension of cultural and historical connections. However, the concept of free movement and the potential demographic changes it entails can be a source of concern for some.

The Broader Implications

The question of Romania's membership and the principles of free movement in the EU encapsulates the broader debate about the nature and future of the European Union. It reflects the challenges of maintaining a balance between economic integration and social cohesion within the union.

From a critical standpoint, the EU's success may depend on the ability to transform from an economic union to a more integrated and culturally cohesive entity. This transformation would require addressing the underlying issues of economic disparities and fostering a sense of shared European identity.

Conclusion

The analysis of Romania's potential EU membership and the principles of free movement in retrospect underscores the complexities of the EU project. It highlights the need for a balanced approach that considers both economic benefits and social factors. The EU must continue to evolve in a way that promotes inclusivity and mutual respect among its member states.

Understanding these dynamics is crucial for fostering a more harmonious and sustainable European Union.