The European Union is defined by the CIA World Factbook as an "intergovernmental and supranational organization." But what does that mean? And what is the EU? In simpler terms, the European Union is a collection of 27 sovereign nations who, for political and economic reasons, have formed an organization that spans much of the continent. Though founded on an earlier prexisting institution, the EU came into its present form in 1993.
Today member states essentially share a single market. This means that all 27 states have a common set of laws, ensuring the free movement of goods, services, people, and capital between countries. Many changes have developed, and continue to develop, as a result of the EU. For instance before the European Union, travlers were required to show a passport each time they moved between countries. Today once an individual has entered an EU state, there is no need to show a passport again when going from one member country to another.
On a related note, the EU introduced the Euro in 1999. The Euro is a standard form of currency used in 16 of the member states. It allows individuals to travel between countries without having to exchange money. Several countries have opted not to use the Euro, including the United Kingdom, Sweden, and Denmark.
In many ways, the European Union is more like an independent nation than an economic organization. Because, in addition to having its own currency, the EU has its own flag and its own anthem. According to the CIA World Factbook, as the EU continues to evolve, it will likely continue to expand this "nation-like characteristics." This makes the European Union unique-- no organization like this has ever been seen before in history.
Quiz on Friday!
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6 comments:
Yay Euro!!!!!!
I looked it up, and 5 $ in the US is worth about 3.42 Euros. (if I'm wrong, anyone can correct me).
I'd love to. But, unfortunately, the only mistake I could find is that the EU consists of 28 independant states. Before posting you should research thouroughly. That is a part of teaching correct? Having the right answers?
Until next time
Hey, stop being such a coward. Come out with a name don't hide behind 'Anonymous' it makes you look even worse. And teaching is not only about having the right answers you idiot, it's also about learning from students and research you do for the class. You never stop learning. So don't act all high and mighty with your little wikipedia answer. It just so happens there ARE 27 countries in the EU and your source is wrong so why don't you go out and get the right answers before posting? =P
Thanks for the info on the Euro. And for anonymous Teachers screw up too, even though she didnt. Nooone is perfect.
Really?
We're all going to get offended just because some inconsiderate creep is trying to make us angry? We're much better people that Anonymous, because we don't go around trying to bring others down.
People worth bothering with are the kind, considerate, POLITE people.
By the way, just because someone posts something, doesn't mean you have to respond.
So leave us alone Anonymous (or whoever you are).
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