EU enlargement: migration and residence

Freedom of movement for the citizens of EU member states, in the shape of the right to choose one's place of residence within EU territory and to pursue gainful employment there, is one of the EU's basic freedoms. However, this freedom proved to be a major obstacle in the negotiations on EU enlargement between the European Commission, the existing member states, and the candidates for membership. The "old" member states were afraid that after accession, the fact that wages were significantly higher in the West would lead to large-scale migration from East to West. The new member states felt that the demand for interim rules meant they were being treated as second-class members. After prolonged and difficult negotiations, it proved possible to agree on a solution which analysts have seen as workable and acceptable. This article summarizes studies of the potential for East-West migration, examines the negotiation process, and concludes with an assessment of the demographic and economic aspects of the outcome.