Poland & the EU - the opportunities and costs

After the breaking down of communist regime Soviet Union on 1991, Poland as part of its influenced region had to seek for a new path of development. At that time, the prosperous western countries became the model of Poland. It started to adopt free market and try to join the biggest political and economic union in Europe, the European Union. However, after the Poland’s application for membership in 1994, the sundry preparation of joining EU last about 10 years. Since 1st May 2004 Poland has been a member state in European Union. Joining EU itself brings Poland challenge and opportunities at the same time.

Challenges:

1. EU requires Poland to comply multiple high standard treatise and agreements refer to economic, environment etc. To meet EU’s requirement, Polish government must spend over 40 Billion Euros in next 10 - 15 years
2. Polish local industry facing a big competition from all other EU members.
3. Because of the “free movement” labour of Poland starts to work outside Poland, which makes Poland itself lack labour force.

Opportunities:

1. The most obvious benefit is: Poland receives a good amount of subsidise every year on facilities construction. 
2. Joining EU makes Poland a better place to attract international investment. 
3. EU gives Poland a very peace develop environment.