EU: Responsibility is Not a Dirty Word

Novinite Insider » EDITORIAL | April 26, 2005, Tuesday // 00:00
EU: Responsibility is Not a Dirty Word To some Bulgarians EU is a reason to celebrate – others seem disturbed by the stricter rules that will soon be imposed. Photo by Yuliana Nikolova (Sofia News Agency)

by Petya Bondokova

One of the main arguments of Bulgarians who oppose EU entry has been the responsibility that membership entails.

Stricter rules, new bans and restrictions, the need to match much higher standards in the economic and social fields -- that new reality has apparently frightened many. Especially the ones who see responsibility as a mere holdback.

One of the most disputed restrictions has been ... the ban on trading with homemade liquor.

Even if the longstanding process of EU integration had left many otherwise indifferent, they were quick to criticize the constraining policy on making rakiya.

It seems that to some Bulgarians the Union resembles a strict parent scolding a misbehaving child. Putting an end to freedom and carelessness, constantly watching over every move, monitoring the administration, the market, the society, allotting millions of euros for necessary reforms, yet imposing severe sanctions if rules get broken.

Full membership is still two years away (or even three, having in mind the safeguard clause). But nostalgia for the times when Bulgaria had no one watching over is already setting in. Just like grownups feel sentimental about their childhood years.

Well, it is the same with countries as it is with people. Growing up means responsibility. But also greater opportunities. New chances. A reality of countless compromises for the sake of higher goals.

For the next two years, we'll be keeping our fingers crossed for the maturing of an entire nation. Eventually, our increased responsibility will act like the greatest motive for progress.

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