Social Cohesion - a priority after enlargement?

Abstract

The referendum on EU accession confirmed a principal civilization decision of Slovaks on long-term direction of Slovakia. EU integration provides an opportunity to modernize Slovakia, to overcome its lagging behind Western Europe in economic performance3 and living Standard as well as to overcome big disparities between individual regions within Slovakia4. It should also ensure social cohesion ofthe society as a whole and specifícally ofless developed regions. Thus they aimed to create equal opportunities for numerous marginalized groups, mainly Roma, as well as stop the decrease in the quality of life, especially for those living in rural areas.