Czech Republic: In Favour of Deeper Integration Without Being Aware of It Building Bridges Paper Series
The Czech Republic has moved from being a pro-EU country focused on benefits it can reap, such as the freedom of movement, to a more sceptic country in recent years. The critiques against the EU date back to the accession and do not focus on the integration process, but rather on the conditions of membership - especially those discussed during the negotiations on the Lisbon treaty and after on the euro adoption.
The country feels that the current level of integration is adequate and would favour deepening cooperation in existing policies, such as the single market or the Energy Union. The Czechs also consider that a multi-speed EU is in their interest.
The Schengen Area is a cornerstone of the EU. Its preservation is crucial to fostering a European public sphere. Other policies or instruments could be further enhanced in the Czech Republic, such as the Erasmus and Europe for Citizens programmes. While this may point to long-term solutions, a change of attitude cannot happen instantaneously.
This publication is part of the "Building Bridges Paper Series". For more information about this project, click here.