The politics of Croatia's EU accession

Abstract

This study first offers a brief overview of Croatian history and political developments from the disintegration of Yugoslavia to Croatia's decision to apply for EU membership. It then explores the question of why the Croatian Government decided to apply for EU membership. Finally, it examines the opinions of the civil sector and public regarding joining the EU. The conclusions of this thesis are that the Croatian Government's main reason for wishing to join the EU has to do with identity and security, while the civil sector and the general public are primarily driven by economic considerations and the prospect of socio-cultural benefits.