Association

"Association provides the main basis for relations between the EU and those states currently seeking membership. This book explores the potential scope and purpose of association and assesses the role it plays in promoting integration with and accession to the EU. Association is presented as a flexible form of relationship which can result in a highly developed alternative to membership. Yet, although association may be flexible, an examination of the various associations created and the experiences of the associated states shows that it involves associates becoming de facto satellites of the EU. Questions are also raised concerning the value of association as a stepping-stone to membership. Associations may be perceived as such, but rarely do they fulfil this function."--BOOK JACKET.