In the 20 years since then, almost 450 million Europeans enjoy free movement in a larger Union.
This week, the European Union celebrates the 20th anniversary of the 2004 enlargement. On 1 May 2004, Cyprus, the Czech Republic, Estonia, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, Malta, Poland, Slovakia and Slovenia joined the EU.
In her speech to Parliament last week, President von der Leyen described this important moment in the EU integration process as “the birth of a new era”.
In the 20 years since then, almost 450 million Europeans enjoy free movement in a larger Union.
Citizens have stronger rights and freedoms. The economies of the then new member states are booming, their agricultural production has tripled, while their unemployment rates have halved.
Countries that were already members during the 2004 enlargement are also experiencing growth and prosperity.
Enlargement has given more EU citizens and businesses opportunities to study and work abroad, invest and export to a wider Union. The 2004 enlargement also strengthened Europe’s voice on the world stage.
Korina Georgiou
Source :Skai
With a wealth of experience honed over 4+ years in journalism, I bring a seasoned voice to the world of news. Currently, I work as a freelance writer and editor, always seeking new opportunities to tell compelling stories in the field of world news.
