The Czech Republic and the European Union Europe and the Nation State Series

This book examines the relationship between the Czech Republic and the European Union (EU). The authors examine the Czech Republic?s road to EU membership in 2004 and assess how EU accession has affected or changed the Czech Republic, including its domestic politics, governing institutions and public policies. It also examines how the Czech Republic has behaved as an EU member state, addressing the questions:

• What are the Czech Republic?s interests in the EU and how has it sought to influence EU policymaking?
• How have Czech interests and behaviour been shaped by the country?s position as: a new member state; a small member state; a relatively poor member state; and a post-communist member state?

The book also addresses the Czech Republic?s preparations for assuming the EU presidency in January 2009, and evaluates the actual conduct of the presidency. Although a case study of a single member state, this book sheds light on a number of broader points or issues pertaining to the EU and its member states. It contributes to academic debate and knowledge about the EU and European integration, including the debates on Europeanization and the role of small states in the EU.

This book will of interest to students and scholars of the European Union, European politics and Post-Communist politics.

Introduction 1. Return to Europe: From Velvet Revolution to EU Accession 2. The Internal Sources of Czech EU Policy: National Identity, Public Opinion, Political Parties and Elites 3. Institutional Adaptation and Change: State Institutions and Regional Governance 4. The Czech Economy and EU Integration 5. Implementing EU Policies: Environmental, Agricultural, and Regional Policy 6. The Czech Republic as an EU Actor 7.The Czech EU Presidency 8. Conclusion