The impact of EU integration process in transition countries on the evolution and development of Romania`s cities and urban system.

This thesis aims at providing an analysis of the impact of the European integration process and policies on the development and structure of national urban systems in transition countries, using the specific example of Romania. The analysis provided aims at understanding firstly, what are the relevant aspects of EU that influence the development of urban systems; secondly, what are the main features of Romania`s urban system and how did it develop along time, and last, where does Romania stand right now in terms of regional disparities. By evaluating the changes in the urban systems it is intended to try and have a broader understanding on the evolution in living standards and conditions that have occurred in Romania since the signature of the accession agreement (1994) and during the first years after accession to the European Union (EU) from 2007. The hypothesis is that Romania has improved its framework of policies and economic structure due to EU legal system, support and funding. In this situation, meeting the conditions for becoming a Member States (MS) has acted like a catalyst in Romania`s economy, obliging the country to modernize at a high speed rate and quality. Nevertheless, the consequences of becoming a Member State also attracted obligations to follow EU`s principles. A strong emphasize is put on reducing the regional disparities and the convergence of economies and development of areas.