EUROPEAN UNION

The European Union is a group of 27 member politically
and economically allied nations. The original union was
based on the trade of coal and steel between six
nations, but it has increased in size since 1958. The EU
has a single market and a set of laws that apply in all
states. People are allowed to move freely from state to
state, and goods and services are also traded freely. In
addition, the EU has its own currency, called the Euro.
Over 500 million people live in the EU, which is about 7
percent of the world population. The GDP is about 16.2
billion US dollars. However, there is still some
controversy regarding whether this is the best economic
arrangement for these European nations. Many believe it
benefits some nations and not others, but supporters
argue that it enhances all economies and builds
stronger cultural ties.
Potential Pros to the European Union Debate
One of the main pros of the EU is that people traveling
from nation to nation, which they often do in Europe,
only have to carry one form of currency. They do not
have to go through the hassle of making exchanges or
figuring out exchange rates.
Another benefit to this system is that it allows people to
move freely between nations, which makes it easier for
people to work internationally. People have more say in
where they live and can move to better climates if they
desire. Supporters of the EU also argue this
arrangement keeps more money in Europe, as it reduces
the amount of trade necessary with nations outside of
the EU. It also allows for competition with larger
nations, such as China and the United States, which is
not possible for small nations on their own.
Arguments to the European Union Debate
Those who are against the EU have several reasons for
their opinions. Many believe the Euro has contributed to
the economic crisis in Europe, since struggling member
nations tend to pull down the entire European Union.
Those that would not struggle on their own endure more
financial hardship as a result. Other opponents of the
EU believe it makes it harder to regulate the influx of
immigrants and refugees. Some nations may also lose
their skilled workers, since they can move to other EU
nations so easily.
Another criticism of the EU is that making changes in
laws across all involved nations costs money and
results in a rise in taxes. In addition, though the EU was
designed to prevent war, some believe disagreements
over policies could result in violence.