The European Union

Benjamin Wright
6 min read
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#European Union: A Night-Before Review ๐ช๐บ
Welcome! Let's get you exam-ready with a focused review of the European Union. We'll cover key concepts, challenges, and exam tips to ensure you feel confident and prepared. Let's dive in!
#๐ From Competition to Cooperation: The Genesis of the EU
Post-WWII, a shift from national rivalry to cooperation emerged in Europe.
#Key Stages of Development:
- European Coal and Steel Community (ECSC) (1952):
Six nations collaborated on industrial production.
Expanded economic cooperation.
The fully formed structure, encompassing political and economic integration.
Caption: Map of the European Union, highlighting the 27 member states.
The EU facilitates the free movement of goods, services, capital, and people among member states.
It also establishes common tariffs against non-EU countries.
As of 2022, the EU has 27 member states, a population of over 447 million, and is the second-largest market globally.
#๐๏ธ Structure of the EU: How It Works
The EU has a complex structure with several key institutions:
#The Four Main Institutions:
- European Parliament:
Directly elected by EU citizens; legislative body.
Heads of state/government; sets overall direction.
Representatives from each member state; main decision-making body.
Executive branch; proposes legislation and manages day-to-day affairs.
#Supporting Institutions:
- Court of Justice of the European Union:
Ensures uniform application of EU law.
Manages the euro and maintains price stability.
Audits EU finances for accountability.
EU policies can supersede national legislation in certain areas.
#โ ๏ธ Challenges to the EU: Navigating the 21st Century
The EU faces several significant challenges:
#๐ Euro Crisis
A period of financial and economic turmoil in the eurozone.
#๐ฌ Refugee Crisis
Large influx of refugees and asylum seekers since 2015.
- Caused by conflicts and instability in the Middle East and North Africa.
- Strained resources, infrastructure, and caused tensions between member states.
- Example: Establishment of a common European asylum system and refugee relocation mechanisms.
#๐ Diverging Values
Democratic backsliding in some member states, particularly Hungary and Poland.
The EU Parliament declared that Hungary could "no longer be considered a full democracy."
#๐คจ Euroskepticism
Critical attitude towards the EU and European integration.
Has led to the rise of Euroskeptic parties and movements.
#๐ฏ Final Exam Focus
#High-Value Topics:
- The evolution of the EU: From ECSC to the current EU structure.
- Key EU institutions: Their roles and functions.
- Challenges to the EU: Euro crisis, refugee crisis, democratic backsliding, and Euroskepticism.
- Impact of EU policies: How they affect member states.
#Common Question Types:
- Multiple Choice: Testing your knowledge of key terms, institutions, and events.
- Short Answer: Requiring you to explain concepts and analyze challenges.
- Essay Questions: Asking you to synthesize information and develop arguments about the EU's past, present, and future.
#Last-Minute Tips:
- Time Management: Allocate time for each question and stick to your plan.
- Common Pitfalls: Avoid vague answers; be specific and use examples.
- Strategic Approach: Start with questions you know well to build confidence.
- Stay Calm: Take deep breaths and trust your preparation. You've got this! ๐ก
Remember to connect historical events to their impact on the EU's development and challenges.
Don't confuse the European Council with the Council of the European Union. They have different roles!
Good luck on your exam! You are well-prepared and ready to succeed. ๐ช
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