The readiness of the applicant states for membership of the EU is measured in the Commission avis, or "opinions", against three criteria: - the stability of their institutions guaranteeing democracy, the rule of law, human rights and respect for and protection of minorities; - the existence of a functioning market economy, as well as the ability to cope with competitive pressures and market forces within the Union; - the ability to take on the obligations of membership , including adherence to the aims of political, economic and monetary union.
Those who do not qualify for accession talks early next year will have a report prepared on their standing each year.
The EU 15 and the 10 applicant countries of Central and Eastern Europe (CEECs)
POPULATION
EU: 372 million CEECs: 105 million
AREA (sq km)
EU: 3,240,000 CEECs: 1,075,000 GDP (1995*)
EU: £4,800 billion CEECs: £433 billion Total GDP of CEECs as percentage of EU15: 8.9 Average CEECs' income per capita as percentage of EU15: 32 %
* GDP based on parity purchasing rates to give estimate of relative standard of living. GDP rates from eastern Europe should be treated with some caution as they do not yet conform to EU standards.
Source of statistics - Eurostat