A two-hand project

For East-European Countries, adhesion is not the solution to all problems, nor is it the end of their history or the elimination of their identity. It’s a process with lights and shadows, problems and joys. A common path whereby the East and the West today proceed in the same direction, although the two still stand at a remarkable distance. It may seem reductive, but we must admit that the major motivation which led the East to enter the European Union is economic. If on the one part it was illusory to believe that after EU adhesion all problems would disappear in an instant, on the other there is a constant quest for benefits that may lead to the States’ development and to an improved standard of living. However, if until today post-Communist countries have economically stood within Russia’ shadow, now the Euro is on the horizon. This expectation however is also reason for concern; the passage from Communism to Consumerism, from dependence to freedom, prevented the creation of a responsible awareness, that is capable of making the most of its freedom.Secondly, EU entry implies renouncing a series of rights and to a certain extent it also calls into question one’s own identity. It is a challenge, which Eastern countries intend to meet in exchange for legal and political security. In fact if it’s true that freedom was achieved thanks to these Countries’ deeply-rooted identity, it is equally true that they are seeking points of reference and support in the Western world. This is a perilous challenge however. Cultural contamination is one of these. There isn’t an a priori rejection of Western values and lifestyle, while there is concern for an ethics marked by illuminism and relativism. It isn’t so very different from the Communist experience: if then the intention was for everyone to have the same thought, today the prevailing culture expects everyone to have the same morals: a tolerating and “relative” morals where nobody stands out for himself.This contamination of values is all the more evident as relates to the family. Wanting to affirm “new forms of family” is nothing more than the consequence of a form of liberty that is separated from responsibilities towards the spouse, the children and society as a whole. This happens while in an Eastern Country such as Lithuania, the recognition of the family as a natural organism, is expected to entail the implementation of 3-year parental leave with the support of the State. Criticism was focused on the fact that the measure is anti-European since it would lead women to be housewives instead of being career-driven.Also, the Christian roots of Europe are at the centre of attention since Lithuania is willing to grant public recognition. It is rather remarkable that this is the stand of a East-European Country, one of those Countries which least tolerate the presence of religion within the public sphere. EU adhesion also means becoming part of a large 27-member family, letting one’s voice be heard in a context where it’s hard to be ignored. Relations with other Countries will become easier, it will be possible to have exchanges and participate in a broader job market. Immigration policies will have to re-write another chapter, which will affect future generations. Ahead of us lies a future marked by worry, challenges and joy. But mostly, our future will have to be shaped by the East and the West, together.