Political and Economic Aspects of Ukrainian Eurointegration: Reality and Prospects

Abstract

The article explores the issues related to the integration of Ukraine into European structures. The plans for carrying out and the processes of practical implementation of the relevant reforms are analyzed. Some aspects of relations between Ukraine and the European Union in 1991–2022 are considered. in the context of its search for a new identity, Ukraine – a way out of the economic and socio-political crisis, taking into account the Association Agreement, the expanded and deepened free trade zone and the Russian-Ukrainian conflict. Particular attention is paid to the institutional, political and economic parameters of integration, as well as the prospects that the country can achieve as an EU member. In Ukraine, European integration was perceived by most politicians and the public not so much as an alternative, but as a matter of vital importance. In the process of development, mistakes were made by Ukraine, the EU and the Russian Federation, which led to the second after the Yugoslav armed conflict in Europe. Under the new conditions, Ukraine has increased its efforts to get closer to the EU, making it a constitutional norm. In the current situation, the presence of political will and analysis of the mistakes made become a prerequisite. Only on this basis is the subsequent convergence of ideas about the ways of resolving the conflict, about the goals, timing and consequences of Ukraine’s integration into the EU possible, which plays an important role in the formation of the Eurasian space of security and cooperation. The country’s accession to the European Union has become one of the priorities of Ukraine’s foreign policy since the creation of an independent state in 1991. There were many obstacles along the way, which the country managed to overcome. The main idea and meaning of integration was that the republic, having joined the EU, would become part of a powerful project that would support the functioning of democratic institutions, the rule of law, promote economic and social development, give impetus to the development of regions, positively affect the business sector and will contribute to the improvement of the environment. To achieve this goal, Ukraine needed to implement large-scale economic and social reforms, to take on obligations related to EU membership.