The EU plays an important role in diplomacy and works to foster stability, security and prosperity, democracy, fundamental freedoms and the rule of law at international level.
According to the European Union's official website, the union's purpose is to promote peace, establish a unified economic and monetary system, promote inclusion and combat discrimination, break down barriers to trade and borders, encourage technological and scientific developments, champion environmental protection, ...
The EU protects all minorities and vulnerable groups, and stands up for the oppressed. Regardless of a person's nationality, gender, language group, culture, profession, disability or sexuality, the EU insists on equal treatment for all.
Hence, the EU is a unique political system because it “governs without government” but also has a democratic tradition through its member states. ... Thus, the binding nature of most of the provisions and decisions made by the EU, as ensured by the judiciary, characterise it as a federal state.
List of Disadvantages of the European Union
Germany, topping the ranking, put in 17.2 billion Euros more than it got out. Poland was the biggest monetary benefactor from the EU, coming out with 11.6 billion euros earned, far ahead of Hungary (5 billion Euros) and Greece (3.2 billion Euros).
Three territories of EU member states have withdrawn: French Algeria (in 1962, upon independence), Greenland (in 1985, following a referendum) and Saint Barthélemy (in 2012), the latter two becoming Overseas Countries and Territories of the European Union.
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. ... The total EEA EFTA commitment amounts to 2.4% of the overall EU programme budget.
Benefits of the Euro
The EU has been a success in ensuring cooperation between its member states. Its institutions facilitate diplomatic negotiations in a rule-based and efficient manner. ... Nevertheless, the EU can make decisions and shape policies only if it has the required authority, and if member states agree.
You can travel, study, work and live in any EU country. Anyone can decide where they want to live or look for work. Free movement of people is possible thanks to the EU´s single market. The EU has removed barriers to free trade between its members.
The EU countries are: Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Republic of Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain and Sweden.
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