The Price of European Identity: The Negative Social and Economic Impact of Slovenian Migration Law

Abstract

Since its independence in 1991, Slovenia has become the most economically successful of the former Yugoslavian countries, as it is the only one to become a member of the European Union (EU) and the only Eastern European country to implement the Euro.' Those achievements, however, have come at a price. By choosing to join the EU, Slovenia has consequently been forced to adhere to EU migration policies, laws, and requirements of the Schengen Acquis (Schengen). This Article asserts that the adherence to such EU-dictated migration policies, laws, and Schengen has negatively impacted Slovenian culture and economic development. In addition, the structure, language, and administration of the Slovenian migration laws, in accordance with EU standards, are detrimental to its culture and economic development. The lessons from Slovenia's adoption of EU migration standards are important for both new EU members, specifically Romania and Bulgaria, and for other candidate countries to consider as possible consequences of EU accession. Part I of this Article examines Slovenia's accession to the EU. Part II examines the EU's policies, laws, and Schengen requirements regarding migration. Part III analyzes the amendments and drafting of Slovenia's laws in adherence to EU standards. Part IV analyzes the negative cultural consequences to Slovenia from its migration policy and administration of that policy in accordance with EU's standards. Part V analyzes the negative economic consequences to Slovenia arising out of that same policy.