European Memory Politics in Times of War: The EU Mnemonic Acquis Following Russia’s Invasion of Ukraine

Abstract This article examines shifts in the EU’s memory regime after Russia invaded Ukraine. Revisiting the “mnemonic acquis” concept, we explore how evolving EU remembrance norms shape European identity and enlargement, analyzing the transition from a Holocaust-centered to an activist framework through EP Holodomor resolutions and the impact of memory politics on enlargement via the Bulgaria-North Macedonia dispute. The study highlights the growing influence of Central and Eastern European anti-communist voices and the Western European left reconsidering its approach to Russia. While memory politics now addresses geopolitical challenges, the article argues that incorporating memory into enlargement risks fueling nationalist tensions and overshadowing membership criteria, stressing the need for a pluralist approach.