Question

“European Union is a highly influential regional organization.” Justify the statement with any four suitable arguments.

Answer 1

1. The European Union (EU) as an economic power:
   1. The largest economy, with a GDP of more than $ 12 trillion in 2005.
   2. The Euro is powerful enough to threaten the dominance of the US Dollar.
   3. Its share in global trade is three times that of the United States. It is very assertive in trade issues with the United States and China.
   4. Its economic power enables it to exert influence over its neighbors and Asian and African countries.
   5. It is a significant player in international economic organizations such as the WTO.
2. The European Union (EU) as a political and military power:
   1. Britain and France have permanent seats on the UN Security Council (UNSC).
   2. Several additional EU members have non-permanent positions on the UNSC.
   3. Diplomacy, economic investment, and discussions have proven far more effective than coercion and military power. For example, in discussions with China about human rights and environmental degradation.
   4. The European Union’s combined military forces are the world’s second largest.
   5. Its defense spending is second only to that of the United States.
   6. Britain and France also have nuclear arsenals of around 550 bombs.
   7. It is also the second-largest provider of space and communications technology.