What is European Integration?
European integration is a process of promoting closer economic, political and other ties among the countries of the European Union (EU) The aim of the process is to deepen the ties between the countries, to foster greater cooperation and unity, and to ultimately form a united Europe.
The process of European integration has a long history. It began in the 1950s as a response to the horrors of World War II, with the leaders of the time wanting to prevent future conflict in Europe by creating a more closely connected union of states. The process has progressed over the decades, with the European Union now being effectively a single market with a common set of economic, political and legal regulations.
Economic integration has been the foundation of the process of European integration. This has included the introduction of a single market, with common non-tariff barriers to trade, mutual recognition of regulations, free movement of workers, and the free movement of capital. These have resulted in increased economic growth and prosperity throughout the EU.
Political integration has been another key factor in the process of European integration. This has included the adoption of common foreign and security policies, such as the European Union’s common commitment to ensure human rights, democracy and the rule of law. It has also included the establishment of measures to improve the effectiveness of decision-making, such as the European Commission and the Council of Ministers.
Five Best Examples of European Integration
1. Single European Market: The single market is the most important element of European integration and is the world’s largest trading bloc. It eliminates all non-tariff barriers to trade, allowing goods, services, capital, and people to move freely throughout the EU. This has resulted in increased competition and efficiency, benefiting European businesses and consumers.
2. Euro: The euro is the official currency of 19 European countries. Its introduction in 1999 was a milestone in the process of European integration, representing a significant step towards the goal of a single economic unit. The euro has helped reduce transaction costs, boost investment, and improve economic stability in Europe.
3. The Schengen Area: The Schengen Area is an area of 22 European countries which have abolished border controls with each other. This has allowed people and goods to move freely throughout the European Union, helping to boost economic development and closer integration.
4. European Court of Justice: The European Court of Justice is an important legal institution which plays an important role in upholding the rule of law across the European Union. It enforces the EU's laws and guarantees the fundamental rights of citizens across the region.
5. Common Foreign and Security Policy: The CFSP is the EU's common effort to promote peace and security in Europe. It involves everything from sanctions and trade policies to humanitarian aid, and it has helped to foster better relations between countries in the region and to reduce the risk of conflict.