On May 1, 2004, celebrations took place in many Central and Eastern European capitals. There was great euphoria and joy at finally becoming members of the European family, which expanded from 15 to 25 members. How does the region look back on the past two decades? What can be learned from these experiences for future accession processes?

Polish citizens sent a clear signal against illiberal tendencies in their country with the election in October 2023. Learn more about the challenges of the new government and how Poland now constructively engages at the EU negotiation table.

Daniel Cohn-Bendit on facets of antisemitism and racism in today’s Europe, deep divisions in pluralistic societies, and the need to recognize the other side’s pain.

Resolute action has never been one of the European Union’s strengths. Swift decision-making is not one of the advantages democracies offer. But are the other advantages enough in times of war, as in Ukraine now, when every moment of hesitation costs human lives?

Learn more about the EU member states, key institutions, current parliamentary majorities, recent voter turnout, and the history of the EU.