The Influence of Cultural and Historical Factors on the Participation of Central and Eastern European Countries in European Integration: Poland and the Czech Republic as Examples
Abstract
Along with the drastic changes in Eastern Europe and the collapse of the Soviet Union, countries in Central and Eastern Europe (CEE) freed themselves from the control of the Soviet Union and began to join European integration. In fact, historical and cultural factors significantly influenced the process of joining the European Union. The artistic gene of being close to Western Europe makes European integration naturally attractive to the countries of CEE. At the same time, the strong nationalism makes the countries of CEE raise strong opposition to the policies of the European Union in many cases. This plays a severe role in hindering the participation of the countries of CEE in European integration. In addition, the economic assistance from Western Europe and the need for regional security after the Cold War were also practical reasons that pushed CEE countries to participate in European integration. In conclusion, the influence of cultural and historical factors on the participation of CEE countries in European integration has both positive and negative sides. It results from the combination of historical and cultural factors and practical factors.
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