The Integration of the Western European Small-Sized Countries with the European Union

Details

Supervisors

Delreux, Tom

Faculty

Faculté des sciences économiques, sociales, politiques et de communication

Degree label

Master [120] en études européennes

Abstract

This analytical article deals with the curious situation of the Western European small-sized countries (Andorra, Liechtenstein, Monaco and San Marino) and their integration with the European Union. While one could expect that their similarities (such as tiny territorial basis, small population or high GDP per capita) would lead to a common approach towards the EU, the relations are very different in practice. Indeed, depending on the policy fields, these states are differently integrated with the EU. Nevertheless, the situation will probably change in the near future due to (a) future association agreement(s), which is/are still under negotiations. It/they will provide Andorra, Monaco and San Marino with equal access to the EU’s internal market, like it is already the case for Liechtenstein, which is a member of the EEA. This context makes the topic even more relevant. The purpose of the research is to provide readers with an answer to the following question: How can the differentiated integration between the Western European small-sized countries with the European Union be explained? The paper covers all the areas where there is an integration, with an emphasis on the Community acquis and tax cooperation. Indeed, the analysis focuses on these two fields through the test of six hypotheses that rely on three different theories, namely rational choice theory, institutionalist theory and constructivist theory. The other fields covered are customs matters, monetary agreements, Schengen area and cooperation agreements. The research has been empirically supported by a field investigation, relying on interviews conducted with small-sized countries experts in Geneva, Switzerland and Brussels, Belgium. The article also relies on analyses of national statistics, official data and reports. The results show that the differentiated integration is explained by endogenous factors, like economic structure and state capacity, as well as exogenous factors, like international and European pressure and historical ties with big neighbouring states. At the end of the day, the paper aims at providing the academic sphere with a real contribution. As the former lacks researches on this topic, the author hopes that his work will trigger a new dynamic in this field.