Pleading for Armenia's accession to the European Union

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This book, an expanded version of a Master's thesis from the University of Flensburg, presents a comprehensive analysis of Armenia's potential membership in the European Union. Drawing on extensive sources, interviews, and empirical research, the author offers a thorough examination of the topic. Initially intending to document Armenia's gradual shift towards the EU, the author was taken aback by the Armenian Government's announcement to join the Russia-led Eurasian Customs Union in September 2013. This decision sparked intense debates within Armenian politics and civil society, leading to uncertainty ahead of the Vilnius Summit of the Eastern Partnership. The author argues that if Armenia aligns with the Customs Union and later the Eurasian Union, it may lead to economic drawbacks and a neglect of necessary reforms, ultimately fostering a backlash that could strengthen solidarity with Armenia's legitimate security interests and encourage a renewed approach towards the EU. The book highlights Armenia's historical ties to Europe, particularly in the 19th century, and advocates for a clear foreign policy towards Europe that does not conflict with its relations with Russia. It examines the geopolitical landscape, including the roles of Turkey, Azerbaijan, Nagorno Karabakh, Iran, and Georgia, while emphasizing that EU membership, though time-consuming, is a feasible goal for Armenia.