The Changing Roles of National Borders in the Context of European Integration: A Comparative Analysis of Federalization and Nation-State Cooperation

Doi: https://doi.org/10.58603/OPLL4330

Abstract: This paper examines the evolving role of national borders in the context of European integration, with a focus on the Western Balkans. It analyzes the multifaceted nature of sovereignty through geopolitical, cultural, military, and economic lenses. Case studies from Yugoslavia's dissolution, Bosnia and Herzegovina's challenges, and Romania's post-EU accession experience illustrate the complexities of regional integration. The research critiques indiscriminate liberalization and centralization policies, emphasizing the importance of national borders in maintaining societal sustainability and diversity. It argues for a nuanced approach to European integration that respects the principle of subsidiarity and allows for diverse national approaches within a broader framework of shared values. The paper concludes that the future of European integration lies in thoughtfully reconfiguring the roles of national borders to balance the benefits of integration with the preservation of national sovereignty and societal diversity.