European Perspectives: Why Would Anyone Want to Join the EU?

Just as the EU seemed to lose momentum, Russia’s war against Ukraine forced the member states to rally around the idea of Europe as a value-based, economic and political community. It remains to be seen how long this will last, but it has become clear that the EU can be an object of desire and identification – at least to those outside. Recently, Ukraine and Moldova were granted EU candidate status. Others, not least in the western Balkans, have been waiting in line for a long time. Does the EU still represent the hope of a better future? Can – or must – the political project Europe be renewed from the periphery? What role can and should Bulgaria play in such an overhaul – both inside and outside the EU? Speakers: Dubravka Stojanović (RS), Iryna Vidanava (BY), Vessela Tcherneva (BG) and Stanislav Secrieru (MD) Moderator: Michael Martens (DE) This Sofia Debate on Europe panel was recorded on 25 February 2023 at Toplocentrala in Sofia, Bulgaria. https://www.debates-on-europe.eu/sofi... #debatesoneurope #sofia2023 #bulgaria