The thesis tackles the question on the extent to which common values are integrated in the bilateral relations between the EU and Kazakhstan. For this single case-study, process-tracing of the...Show moreThe thesis tackles the question on the extent to which common values are integrated in the bilateral relations between the EU and Kazakhstan. For this single case-study, process-tracing of the negotiation, ratification, and implementation process of the Enhanced Partnership and Cooperation Agreement signed in 2015 is conducted. The agreement is officially based on the pursuit of common values. Kazakhstan, as a cooperative authoritarian regime, shows high willingness to work closely together with the EU and to adapt to its view on democratic values. However, human rights violations from the part of the Kazakh government and state authorities do not seem to slow down the negotiation and implementation process of this important agreement. Alongside the process-tracing of the EPCA negotiations, the actorness of both Kazakhstan and the EU is analyzed. Finally, the research concludes that pragmatic interests from the EU side are predominant and that the adherence to values is not taken as a condition but rather as an objective. Doing so, the EU Parliament pursues a more value-based approach compared to the more pragmatic and encouraging behavior of the Council of the EU, the Commission, and the EU External Action Service. Moreover, integrating values in the cooperation is convenient for the reputation-conscious Kazakh government.Show less
