What is economic integration in EU?4 answersEconomic integration in the European Union (EU) refers to the coordination of economic policies and regulations among member countries. It has been a fundamental mechanism for achieving socio-economic cohesion within the EU, as outlined in the Single European Act of 1986. Over the years, economic integration within the EU has led to increased trade in intermediate inputs, indicating a deepening of economic ties among member states. However, recent events like the Eurozone crisis and Brexit have highlighted the fragility of European economic integration, showcasing the challenges and complexities involved in maintaining strong economic ties within the EU. Despite fluctuations in economic activities and regional concentrations, the EU continues to strive for economic cohesion and integration among its member states.
How do countries benefit from economic integration in European Union?5 answersCountries benefit from economic integration in the European Union through various mechanisms. Economic integration within the EU, as seen in the success of the European Union's experience, attracts foreign direct investment (FDI) and enhances economic development. While economic benefits are significant, they are not the sole driving force behind regional integration. Instead, integration aims to strengthen member states' international position and protect them from external influences. The adoption of a common currency, like the euro, has shown to help Eurozone members share risks during economic downturns, enhancing the overall resilience of the EU. Furthermore, economic integration has led to increased trade in intermediate inputs, with older member states focusing on service inputs and newer members on primary and manufacturing inputs, contributing to wage convergence among countries. Overall, EU membership boosts FDI inflows by an average of 28%, indicating the substantial impact of integration on both FDI and international trade.
Why did Uk not join the european integration process in '50s?5 answersThe United Kingdom did not join the European integration process in the 1950s due to several key factors. Economic concerns related to its coal and steel industries, diplomatic issues within 'high politics,' and its strong ties with the Commonwealth were significant reasons for the UK's exclusion from the European Communities during that period. Additionally, France's reluctance to allow the UK to become a full-fledged member of the European Economic Community posed a major barrier to the UK's entry into the European community. Despite the evolving Europeanization of attitudes within the UK in the early 1960s, it took several years of negotiations and adaptations before the UK finally joined the European Economic Community in 1973.
Can integration happen without loss of culture?5 answersIntegration can happen without loss of culture. Globalization is viewed as an objective process that can have both positive and negative impacts on the development of national culture. While trade integration can lead to a fall in diversity, it is possible to replicate pre-trade choices and still realize gains in real income through fiscal policies. However, globalization can also lead to the dissolution of communities and the loss of cultural identity. In the case of Afghan-American families, the decline of their heritage language is attributed to assimilation and the desire to fit into mainstream culture. Additionally, joint academic study between minority and general population students can lead to a decrease in trust over time, despite assimilation into the general population. Therefore, while integration can occur, it is important to consider the potential impact on culture and identity.
How can existing EU integration theories be improved?5 answersExisting EU integration theories can be improved by adopting a more differentiated conceptualization of integration as a continuous variable that includes disintegration as the opposite value of integration. Additionally, there is a need to complement European integration theories with explanations emphasizing diffusion to understand why and when states are more inclined to pool and delegate sovereignty in certain regions. Furthermore, a new theoretical framework that combines insights from the traditional literature on EU party politics and Ferrera's 'clash syndrome' theory can help understand the political conflict over further European integration in the domain of social and employment policies. A new methodological approach to investigate political positioning in the European Parliament and the Council of the EU can also contribute to a better understanding of conflict dynamics on social integration in the EU. Finally, a shift towards problem-driven contributions and a pragmatic approach in analyzing EU integration can improve the quality of research agendas, methodological approaches, and policy recommendations in the field.
How do refugees influence european integration?5 answersRefugees have a significant influence on European integration. The arrival of refugees has been found to positively impact tolerance towards outer groups, immigrants, foreigners, other races, and religions in both Turkey and Germany in the short run. However, over time, the Turkish population became less tolerant. Confidence in the European Union (EU) has been shown to increase tolerance towards outer groups. Factors such as being male and young have been found to positively shape refugees' integration, resembling economic migrants. Intercultural communal living has been identified as a way to promote social integration and mutual learning between refugees and locals, contributing to newcomer integration. Social innovation has been recognized as a promising approach to refugee integration, facilitating the meeting of refugees' needs and strengthening social cohesion. Culture is considered a domain through which social integration and inclusion of refugees can be facilitated, promoting sustainable solutions for European countries.