ABSTRACT
This chapter analyses the Energy Community as an example of a sector-specific relationship between the European Union (EU) and some of its South Eastern neighbours (and beyond). It explains why and how the Energy Community has been established in the first place, and why and how it has changed over the years. Initially designed as an accession instrument, it developed into a sectoral privileged partnership for countries that are either unwilling or unable to join the EU. To date, the Energy Community is the most advanced example for sectoral cooperation agreements concluded by the EU with its neighbours with a solid institutional structure and decision-making processes. A short comparison with the European Common Aviation Area and the Transport Community shows that the sectoral approach is still being pursued by the EU in cooperating with its neighbours. It also shows that the Energy Community has been the most dynamic of the three models, but the other two may catch up and make their own experiences.
