The effect of Europeanization on bilateral conflicts in the enlargment process: -the bilateral conflict between Greece and Macedonia over the name issue

Abstract: Given the increasing role of the bilateral conflicts in the enlargement process, the purpose of this thesis is to examine the impact the Europeanization has on the countries involved in bilateral conflicts i.e. to account for the specific norms promoted by the EU that contribute to rapprochement between the parties in the conflict, and possibly in finding mutually acceptable solution on the conflict. The regulation of these conflicts can well contribute to advancement of the enlargement process in the accession countries. The thesis will especially focus on the dispute between Macedonia and Greece over the name issue. Other cases such as the Greek-Turkish and Slovenian-Croatian disputes will be used as reference points for general orientation in the endeavor the analysis to better account for the dynamics of conflict regulation and account for possible advancement of the enlargement process in that context