NÁRODNÝ ZÁUJEM NA PRVOM MIESTE: VNÍMANIE NOVÝCH ČLENSKÝCH ŠTÁTOV EÚ

This paper analyses the perception of the new EU member states from the old member states' point of view. It is based on 24 interviews with diplomats from permanent representations of the old member states to the EU in Brussels. The paper points out that the eastern enlargement of the EU is seen in a rather positive light, as are changes in the decision-making process of the European Council. The newcomers are especially active in areas of their national interest, although they have not learned all the “rules of the game” yet and sometimes pursue their preferences in contrast to what the old members perceive as a more appropriate approach.