The second edition of Recreating Europe analyses the progressive integration of central and eastern Europe with the expanding European Union. The European Union will be deeply affected politically, economically and in its institutions by the first enlargement to the region in 2004: similarly the new member states are undergoing a profound transformation in preparation for membership. The Union is also strongly influencing the 'wider Europe' notably in the western Balkans and in eastern Europe and some of these countries aim to join the Union in the coming decade. The book has been completely revised and updated to take account of the changes which accompany the first enlargement of the Union to this region. In addition, new chapters have been added on relations with the western Balkans and with the western CIS countries as well as on the significance of enlargement and the 'wider Europe' for the debate about the 'future of Europe'.