The Idea of a ‘Gradual Enlargement’ Process

A European cooperation that can (re)unify the geographical and cultural facets of Europe has been the dream and vision since its very early foundation in the wake of the Cold War. Even starkly different visions have all formulated the reunification as the ultimate political objective of Europe. Therefore, the continuous enlargements, based on geopolitical realities and possibilities, has accompanied the evolution of the European integration until the ‘Big Bang’ or the ‘great enlargement’ of East-Central Europe in 2004, 2007, and 2013. Further enlargements pose more serious economic and geopolitical difficulties, and the prolonged processes have created dilemma vis-à-vis the candidate countries in the Western Balkan and Eastward regions. In light of this historical context, this study aims to examine the concept and objectives of ‘gradual integration’. It evaluates the positions of both the supranational institutions as well as the individual Member States while drawing a conclusion on the potential ways forward.