As with the Mediterranean countries in the 1980s, the countries in Central and Eastern Europe had emerged from dictatorships and wanted to consolidate their democracies . They also wanted to join the project of European integration and ensure they did not fall back into the Russian sphere of influence.
What is the main reason for the European Union?
The European Union is set up with the aim of ending the frequent and bloody wars between neighbours , which culminated in the Second World War. As of 1950, the European Coal and Steel Community begins to unite European countries economically and politically in order to secure lasting peace.
What makes a country European enough to be part of the EU?
According to the Maastricht Treaty, any European country may apply for EU membership if it meets a set of core political and economic criteria, known as the “Copenhagen criteria.” These criteria for EU membership require candidates to achieve “stability of institutions guaranteeing democracy, the rule of law, human ...
When did the EU have its largest expansion?
The largest expansion of the European Union (EU), in terms of territory, number of states, and population took place on 1 May 2004 .
Why is Norway not in the EU?
Norway has high GNP per capita, and would have to pay a high membership fee. The country has a limited amount of agriculture, and few underdeveloped areas, which means that Norway would receive little economic support from the EU.
What is the difference between Europe and the European Union?
The European Union is not a state, but a unique partnership between European countries , known as Member States. Together they cover much of the European continent. ... Citizens of the EU Member States are also citizens of the European Union. The EU is currently made up of 27 countries.
How did European countries became rich and powerful?
Their power stems primarily from the emergence of the Roman Empire that allow the development of primary technologies (agriculture, weaponery, etc.) and trade which enable the development economic poles across those regions that have usually remained and developed through the centuries.
Why is Turkey not in the EU?
Since 2016 accession negotiations have stalled. The EU has accused and criticized Turkey for human rights violations and deficits in rule of law. In 2017, EU officials expressed that planned Turkish policies violate the Copenhagen criteria of eligibility for an EU membership.
Does a country have to be in Europe to join the EU?
Joining the EU
Any country that satisfies the conditions for membership can apply . These conditions are known as the ‘Copenhagen criteria’ and include a free-market economy, a stable democracy and the rule of law, and the acceptance of all EU legislation, including of the euro.
Which country is currently a European Union candidate country?
Albania, the Republic of North Macedonia, Montenegro, Serbia and Turkey are candidate countries. Negotiations are held with each candidate country to determine their ability to apply EU legislation (acquis) and examine their possible request for transition periods.
Can Ukraine join EU?
On 1 January 2016, Ukraine joined the DCFTA with the EU. ... As of January 2021, Ukraine is preparing to formally apply for EU membership in 2024, in order to join the European Union in the 2030s.
What do the 12 golden stars on a blue background represent?
It features a circle of 12 gold stars on a blue background. They stand for the ideals of unity, solidarity and harmony among the peoples of Europe . The number of stars has nothing to do with the number of member countries, though the circle is a symbol of unity.
Why is Norway so rich?
“Norway is rich today because of the well-educated labour force, productive public and private sectors , and rich natural resources. ... Norway puts its oil revenues into the Government Pension Fund, the largest sovereign wealth fund in the world.
Can EU citizens live in Norway?
If you are an EU / EEA national you have the right to live, work and study in Norway. Depending on where you are from, family members of an EU / EEA national can either apply for a residence card or use the registration scheme. The applicant is the person who wishes to visit or live in Norway.
Can Norwegians work in the EU?
Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway
Although these countries are not members of the EU, their nationals can work in the EU on the same footing as EU nationals , since they belong to the European Economic Area. Workers from Croatia may face temporary restrictions on working in Liechtenstein.
Why is Switzerland not in EU?
Switzerland signed a free-trade agreement with the then European Economic Community in 1972, which entered into force in 1973. ... However, after a Swiss referendum held on 6 December 1992 rejected EEA membership by 50.3% to 49.7%, the Swiss government decided to suspend negotiations for EU membership until further notice.
