Chapter 1: Introduction – Navigating Economic Waters: Development and Resilience in EU Member States

In the intricate tapestry of the European Union (EU), the accession of 13 nations – Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czechia, Estonia, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, Malta, Poland, Romania, Slovakia, and Slovenia – marked a pivotal juncture in the collective narrative of economic development and resilience. As these nations transitioned into full-fledged EU membership, a spectrum of experiences, challenges, and triumphs unfolded, shaping the contours of their economic trajectories.

Our special issue, titled ‘Economic Development and Resilience by EU Member States’, aspires to illuminate the nuanced journey undertaken by these nations, delving into the determinants of imbalances that have marked their economic landscapes. The volume stands as a beacon, spotlighting the diverse challenges faced by each country, spanning the intricate realms of the financial market, foreign direct investment, export-oriented industries, and the complex terrain of energy markets, with a resolute focus on achieving sustainability goals and fostering energy independence.