In June 1993, the Copenhagen European Council recognised the right of the countries of central and eastern Europe to join the European Union when they have fulfilled three criteria:
•political: stable institutions guaranteeing democracy, the rule of law, human rights and respect for minorities;
•economic: a functioning market economy;
•incorporation of the Community acquis: adherence to the various political, economic and monetary aims of the European Union.
These accession criteria were confirmed in December;1995 by the Madrid European Council, which also stressed the importance of adapting the applicant countries' administrative structures to create the conditions for a gradual, harmonious integration.
However, the Union reserves the right to decide when it will be ready to accept new members.
See:
•
Accession partnership•
Applicant countries•
Enlargement•
Incorporation of the Community acquis
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