Europe has always been a region of immense historical importance and uproar. Comprising numerous different, sometimes even competing and fighting nations, Europe forms an ethnically, culturally and socially diversified continent. For centuries, it has therefore been a place of wars, revolutions and migration, as well as a well-spring of cultural imprint, Christianity and philosophy. The last century, shaped by two world wars and the Cold War, entailed a devastated and separated Europe. However, with Germany and France – two traditional arch-enemies – realizing that cooperation is better than warfare, the first milestone towards what was to become the European Union was laid. Today the Union consists of 27 member states, implying almost 500 million inhabitants. As a matter of fact, the creation of the EU itself has been a revolutionary act never encountered before in history, as several sovereign countries agreed on the long-term target of the generation of a common region of unitary legislation.
Enumerating the advantages and opportunities resulting for economy, societies and individuals in the EU, one always has to take into consideration the serious challenges the formation of the Union poses to the particular member states and to their inhabitants.
Table of Contents
- 1. European Problems
- 1.1 Approach to the issue
- 1.2 Current problems of the European Union
- 2. Enlargement of the European Union
- 2.1 The new East-European members
- 2.2 Current applicants for membership
- 2.3 Future applicants
- 3. European Integration - an ever closer union?
- 4. How to solve the Union's lack of efficiency
- 4.1 The Treaty of Lisbon
Objectives and Key Themes
This work aims to provide an overview of the current challenges facing the European Union and explore potential solutions for future development. It focuses on the near-future development of the Union and the tasks necessary to ensure smooth progress in European politics, economy, integration, and citizen satisfaction.
- Challenges of EU enlargement and integration
- The "democratic deficit" within the EU
- The economic and social implications of EU membership
- The role of the Treaty of Lisbon in addressing EU challenges
- The future of European integration and the vision of an "ever closer union"
Chapter Summaries
1. European Problems: This chapter introduces the historical context of Europe as a diverse and often conflict-ridden continent, highlighting its transformation into the European Union. It emphasizes the inherent challenges of uniting such a diverse group of nations, acknowledging both the opportunities and difficulties for member states and their citizens. The chapter lays the groundwork for subsequent chapters by establishing the complex nature of the EU and its ongoing evolution.
2. Enlargement of the European Union: This chapter delves into the challenges and opportunities presented by the EU's eastward expansion, particularly the 2004 and 2007 enlargements. It examines the complexities of integrating new member states, including the implementation of the "acquis communautaire," and addresses concerns about economic disparities, administrative burdens, and the potential strain on EU institutions. The chapter also explores the specific challenges posed by the accession of East European countries, highlighting historical context and unique obstacles to integration.
3. European Integration - an ever closer union?: This chapter explores the concept of European integration, examining the ongoing debate about the ultimate goals of the EU. It contrasts the vision of a highly integrated European federation with the more realistic model of a confederation of sovereign states. The chapter emphasizes the principles of subsidiarity and the need for flexibility in addressing the diverse needs of member states, acknowledging the inherent difficulties in achieving a truly unified Europe.
4. How to solve the Union's lack of efficiency: This chapter addresses the structural deficiencies within the EU and the attempts to reform its institutions. It discusses the proposed European Constitution and its subsequent rejection, highlighting the challenges of achieving a common foreign and security policy. The chapter focuses on the Treaty of Lisbon as a means of addressing these issues and enhancing the EU's effectiveness.
Keywords
European Union, enlargement, integration, democratic deficit, Treaty of Lisbon, Eastern European countries, economic disparities, European integration, subsidiarity, acquis communautaire, fiscal policy.
Frequently Asked Questions: A Comprehensive Language Preview of European Union Challenges
What is the purpose of this document?
This document provides a comprehensive overview of the European Union, focusing on its current challenges and potential solutions. It includes a table of contents, objectives and key themes, chapter summaries, and keywords. The document aims to analyze the near-future development of the EU and the tasks necessary for smooth progress in various aspects.
What topics are covered in the Table of Contents?
The document covers European problems, EU enlargement (including new and future members), European integration (exploring the concept of an "ever closer union"), and solutions to the EU's lack of efficiency (with a focus on the Treaty of Lisbon).
What are the key themes explored in the document?
Key themes include the challenges of EU enlargement and integration, the "democratic deficit" within the EU, the economic and social implications of EU membership, the role of the Treaty of Lisbon, and the future of European integration.
What are the main points discussed in Chapter 1: European Problems?
Chapter 1 introduces the historical context of Europe, highlighting its transformation into the European Union. It emphasizes the challenges of uniting diverse nations, acknowledging both opportunities and difficulties for member states and citizens. It sets the stage for subsequent chapters by establishing the complexity of the EU and its ongoing evolution.
What are the main points discussed in Chapter 2: Enlargement of the European Union?
Chapter 2 delves into the challenges and opportunities of the EU's eastward expansion, particularly the 2004 and 2007 enlargements. It examines the complexities of integrating new member states, including economic disparities, administrative burdens, and potential strain on EU institutions. The chapter also focuses on the accession of East European countries and their unique integration challenges.
What are the main points discussed in Chapter 3: European Integration - an ever closer union?
Chapter 3 explores the concept of European integration and the debate about the EU's ultimate goals. It contrasts the vision of a highly integrated federation with a confederation of sovereign states, emphasizing subsidiarity and the need for flexibility in addressing diverse member state needs. It acknowledges the difficulties of achieving a truly unified Europe.
What are the main points discussed in Chapter 4: How to solve the Union's lack of efficiency?
Chapter 4 addresses the EU's structural deficiencies and attempts at institutional reform. It discusses the proposed European Constitution and its rejection, highlighting challenges in achieving a common foreign and security policy. The chapter focuses on the Treaty of Lisbon as a solution to enhance the EU's effectiveness.
What are the keywords associated with this document?
Keywords include European Union, enlargement, integration, democratic deficit, Treaty of Lisbon, Eastern European countries, economic disparities, subsidiarity, acquis communautaire, and fiscal policy.
- Quote paper
- Alexander Nikolov (Author), 2008, European Problems - Challenges of the European Union, Munich, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/118279
