The finalité of the European Union’s enlargement

Abstract This article demonstrates that there are currently two problems found deep inside the enlargement law of the European Union. First, partially because of its perception as a primarily political tool, the enlargement of the EU tends to be an indefinite process, something also seen when it comes to the accession of individual countries. Secondly, accession to the Union is regarded as merit-based and political at the same time despite the apparent irreconcilability of these two characteristics. As a solution to these problems, this article suggests that the enlargement law of the Union should be fundamentally revisited in terms of its finalité . Unlike European integration as a whole, the enlargement of the Union needs a clearly defined end goal and purpose. This can be done in particular by regulating the accession process in primary law instead of in soft law instruments.