European Union Debates

1. Ireland Should Immediately Leave the European Union
2. European Union should have an army .
3. The United States should invest in to helping the European Union

European Union Debates

History and Debate of European Union

The European Union is a group of 27 member politically and economically allied nations. The original union was based on the trade of coal and steel between six nations, but it has increased in size since 1958. The EU has a single market and a set of laws that apply in all states. People are allowed to move freely from state to state, and goods and services are also traded freely. In addition, the EU has its own currency, called the Euro. Over 500 million people live in the EU, which is about 7 percent of the world population. The GDP is about 16.2 billion US dollars. However, there is still some controversy regarding whether this is the best economic arrangement for these European nations. Many believe it benefits some nations and not others, but supporters argue that it enhances all economies and builds stronger cultural ties.

Potential Pros to the European Union Debate

One of the main pros of the EU is that people traveling from nation to nation, which they often do in Europe, only have to carry one form of currency. They do not have to go through the hassle of making exchanges or figuring out exchange rates.

Another benefit to this system is that it allows people to move freely between nations, which makes it easier for people to work internationally. People have more say in where they live and can move to better climates if they desire. Supporters of the EU also argue this arrangement keeps more money in Europe, as it reduces the amount of trade necessary with nations outside of the EU. It also allows for competition with larger nations, such as China and the United States, which is not possible for small nations on their own.

Arguments to the European Union Debate

Those who are against the EU have several reasons for their opinions. Many believe the Euro has contributed to the economic crisis in Europe, since struggling member nations tend to pull down the entire European Union. Those that would not struggle on their own endure more financial hardship as a result. Other opponents of the EU believe it makes it harder to regulate the influx of immigrants and refugees. Some nations may also lose their skilled workers, since they can move to other EU nations so easily.

Another criticism of the EU is that making changes in laws across all involved nations costs money and results in a rise in taxes. In addition, though the EU was designed to prevent war, some believe disagreements over policies could result in violence.