First movers or first sellers? Observations on the commercialization of EU membership with a focus on the Baltic States

• In Event: Twenty Years of Membership in the EU: Economic Developments in the Baltic states

Abstract

The changing dynamics of EU integration play an important role in Europe's future, as do strategic considerations that member states should take into account when balancing economic opportunities with broader political objectives. The paper provides insights into the commercialization of EU membership by focusing on the Baltic States. Based on the assumption that the European Single Market or the Schengen area are club goods, it examines to what extent the Baltic states behave opportunistically and whether they act as pioneers or run the risk of being perceived as sell-outs of the EU. The dynamics of European integration and the use of EU membership for economic advantage are discussed. Three examples are used to assess the compatibility of country-specific (economic) interests with the common goals of the EU. The study examines whether the European idea is preserved when member states grant third parties access to EU club goods that may not be fully in line with EU values and standards. This inevitably raises the question of the tragedy of the commons and free-rider behavior.

Author

• Klemens Grube, University of Greifswald