European microstates and their association with the European Union: A case study of Andorra, Monaco, Liechtenstein, San Marino and Vatican City

This bachelor's thesis analyses the contractual relationships between the European Union (EU) and European microstates – Andorra, Liechtenstein, Monaco, San Marino, and the Vatican. The aim of the study is to determine how the EU, through contractual mechanisms, ensures the conditions for cooperation with these non-member states. The thesis employs a comparative case study that combines the analysis of primary sources (treaties and agreements) with secondary literature to quantify the extent of economic, political, and other forms of integration. The findings indicate that, although each of the case countries exhibits an individual approach and specific requirements, the contractual agreements provide them with access to the EU internal market, legislative harmonization, and improved institutional ties. Furthermore, the thesis reflects on the advantages and limitations of such an approach while proposing possibilities for the future development of contractual relationships. The study contributes new insights into the flexibility of the EU in collaborating with non-member states within the context of neighbourhood policy and the concept of association agreements.