This book examines the critical juncture faced by the European Union in the mid-1990s, exploring the internal and external pressures that threatened its integration and future direction. Paul Furlong analyzes the complex political, economic, and social factors shaping the EU's trajectory during this pivotal period. The work investigates the challenges of deepening integration while simultaneously expanding membership, and the potential consequences of failing to navigate these complex dynamics effectively.

This work is recognized as a scholarly analysis of the European Union's strategic challenges during a formative period. Its focus on the complex interplay of political, economic, and social forces provides a detailed examination of the integration process. The book is likely to be of interest to students and scholars of European politics and international relations.