The article explores the topic of EU enlargement and its impact on the identity of Europe. It discusses various countries' motivations for joining the EU, such as promoting interests, consolidating democracy, and returning to their roots. The researchers also examine moral constraints on Spain's enlargement policy, Turkey's efforts to consolidate democracy, and the importance of solidarity in Denmark's support for enlargement. Additionally, the article looks at Germany's perspective on EU enlargement, France's role in protecting the idea of Europe, and the different approaches to European integration in Czech and Slovak political discourse. The researchers also discuss minority protection as a condition for EU membership and conclude that the EU is balancing values and rights in its expansion efforts.