The Role of the Czech Republic in Redefining Central European Identity within the European Union
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.70577/vvg13285Palabras clave:
Czech Republic; Central Europe; Regional Identity; European Union; Constructivism; Identity PoliticsResumen
Following the end of the Cold War and the collapse of the bipolar system, Central Europe re-emerged as a key arena for redefining identity within Europe. States formerly categorized as part of the Eastern Bloc had to reassess their positions after the dissolution of the Soviet Union and the enlargement of the European Union. In this context, the Czech Republic has played a distinctive role in reshaping the meaning of Central Europe from within the EU. This article examines how it has contributed to redefining Central European identity through political engagement, institutional participation, and normative positioning.
The study asks how, and through which mechanisms, the Czech Republic has influenced this redefinition and what consequences this has had for unity and division within the EU. It argues that the Czech Republic has adopted a pragmatic and balanced approach. Rather than opposing Western Europe or accepting an Eastern label, Czech policymakers promote a layered understanding of identity rooted in historical experience and national sovereignty, while remaining selectively engaged in European integration.
Grounded in constructivist international relations theory, the study views identity as socially constructed through interaction with institutions and discourse. The Czech Republic is seen not merely as adapting to EU norms, but as shaping the meaning of Central Europe. Using qualitative analysis of EU documents, government strategies, and elite speeches, the research identifies three levels of influence: historical reinterpretation distancing the region from the Eastern Europe label; active but critical EU participation; and moderated regional cooperation, especially within the Visegrad framework.
Overall, the Czech Republic advances a flexible, pluralistic model of Central European identity compatible with a multi-centered European Union.
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