The Baltic republics: priorities for Western Integration

Abstract

This thesis explores the growing realization that the Baltic republics are not the same, and should not be treated as a single regional bloc. At the same time, merely realizing the existence of different priorities for integration with the West is not enough. The time is fast approaching when Western European institutions will offer the three Baltic republics the opportunity for full membership. Despite this approaching deadline, important questions remain unanswered. This thesis answers these questions by examining the policies enacted by the Baltic republics since 1995 to further their goal of integration with the West. This thesis focuses on policies and decisions regarding the European Union and NATO, since these are the most important Western European institutions. The thesis will identify the priorities that each of the Baltic republics has established for integration, and to trace any important changes in these policies over the course of the decade. In the final analysis, an assessment will be made of possibilities for integration of each republic based on these priorities, and what integration might mean for Europe.