Reflective Post 5

The class visit to the EU Delegation to the United States and the presentation by Dr. Deak was exceptionally enlightening. The scope of the European Union's activities around the world underlines the importance of the EU as a global player.

One issue that was brought up was the enlargement of the European Union and the Turkish question. An interesting concept that is relevant to the larger debate on the inclusion of countries and the collective nature of the European Union is the European Identity. What does it mean to be European? Is there such a thing as a universal European Identity? Dr. Deak easily answered this question with an unequivocal no. An Estonian will not have very much in common with someone living in Spain. Although Dr. Deak did not go too much in-depth into this issue, there was good a measure of practicality when he answered the Turkish question as it related the European Identity.

This notion of identity was really flimsy when it came to expanding the EU and its functioning. Therefore, in a very candid manner, Dr. Deak explained that Turkey’s admission into the EU would not only be good for Turkey but also the European Union. It would be a win-win situation for everyone. However, political designs on both sides are preventing Turkey’s admission into the EU.

Dr. Deak also explained the dynamics of London’s economic stance on the EU. It has to be noted that EU above all is for the facilitation of trade. London is the economic powerhouse of Europe, and one of the main financial center’s of the world. There is a considerable concern by England of the EU eroding the economic importance of England. For this reason the UK has opted not to adopt the Euro as it’s currency-the only EU country not use the Euro-. However, Dr. Deak mentioned should the Euro and Pound achieve parity, then London would not hesitate in making the Euro the national currency.

These two issues were the most striking to me. Dr. Deak provided very practical answers to these seemingly convoluted issues. On Turkey, admission will be granted and would benefit everyone. On the Pound; it isn't a matter of if, but a matter of when the pound will be ditched for the Euro.