Over the next couple of years, the European Union will face a difficult stage, being confronted with the eventual transition to a monetary union. In the beginning of 1997, it is less clear than ever, if and when the European Monetary Union will eventually be realized, which countries will join...

Die Erweiterung der Europäischen Union um acht mittel- und osteuropäische Länder am 1. Mai 2004 und die geplante Aufnahme von zwei weiteren Ländern im Jahr 2007 stellt eine große Herausforderung für Europa dar. Die Besonderheit der EU-Osterweiterung liegt insbesondere im niedrigen...

The EU-accession of Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, Slovakia, Slovenia, the Czech Republic and Hungary in 2004 is more and more probable. Bulgaria and Romania may possibly enter in 2007. In order to later join the EMU, these countries have to meet the Maastricht Criteria. This paper reviews...