Croatia’s EU Accession Treaty: December 9, 2011

On December 9, 2011, Croatia took a significant step towards becoming a member of the European Union (EU) by signing the Treaty of Accession. This event marked the culmination of a lengthy and rigorous process that began when Croatia applied for EU membership in 2003.

Background

• Application for Membership: Croatia applied for EU membership on February 21, 2003. The European Commission recommended making Croatia a candidate country in 2004, and accession negotiations officially began in October 2005.

• Negotiation Process: The negotiation process was extensive, involving the alignment of Croatia’s laws and regulations with EU standards across 35 chapters covering various policy areas. This process was not only technical but also required significant political and economic reforms within Croatia.

• Key Reforms: Croatia had to undertake substantial reforms, particularly in areas such as judicial reform, the fight against corruption, and cooperation with the International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia (ICTY).

The Signing Ceremony

• Date and Location: The Treaty of Accession was signed on December 9, 2011, in Brussels, Belgium, during a European Council meeting.

• Signatories: The treaty was signed by Croatian Prime Minister Jadranka Kosor and President Ivo Josipović, alongside representatives from the 27 EU member states.

Significance

• Path to Membership: The signing of the treaty paved the way for Croatia to become the 28th member state of the EU. It was a momentous occasion for Croatia, symbolizing its integration into the European community after years of post-Yugoslav conflict and transition.

• Ratification Process: Following the signing, the treaty required ratification by all existing EU member states and approval through a referendum in Croatia. The Croatian public voted in favor of EU membership in a referendum held on January 22, 2012.

Official Membership

• Accession Date: Croatia officially joined the European Union on July 1, 2013, becoming the second former Yugoslav republic to join the EU after Slovenia.

Broader Impact

• Regional Influence: Croatia’s accession was seen as a positive signal for other Western Balkan countries aspiring to join the EU, demonstrating the EU’s commitment to the region’s integration.

• Economic and Political Integration: As an EU member, Croatia gained access to the single market and became part of the EU’s political and economic frameworks, which promised to enhance its economic growth and stability.

In summary, the signing of the Treaty of Accession on December 9, 2011, was a pivotal moment in Croatia’s modern history, marking its transition from a post-conflict nation to a full-fledged member of the European Union.