Unit 4 - European Union - Trade Blocs

Question 1

Where are the headquarters of the European Union?

Answer 1

• headquarters in Brussels, Belgium

Question 2

What is the European Union?

Answer 2

• political and economic union

Question 3

How many member states are there of the European Union?

Answer 3

• 28 member states

Question 4

How do you become a member state of the European Union?

Answer 4

• applicant countries must meet the conditions for membership and implement EU rules and regulations in all areas

Question 5

What was the original aim of the European Union?

Answer 5

• original aim to end frequent wars between neighbouring countries → like World War 2

Question 6

What does the European Union stand for?

Answer 6

• human dignity
• rule of law
• freedom
• human rights
• democracy
• equality
• sustainable economic growth

Question 7

What are the benefits of the European Union?

Answer 7

• the European single market
  tax free trading members - no tariffs
• a common currency - trade is simple
• opens up more opportunities - movement is free and open - more job and education opportunities
• helped to develop and modernise countries
  common laws - promote everyone to be treated fairly wherever they go
• less conflict between nations
• liberalisation - consumers can choose the supplier offering the best conditions
• Schengen area

Question 8

What are the criticisms of the European Union?

Answer 8

• communication barriers - less feeling of unity
• loss of sovereignty prevents any one country from becoming powerful (world leaders)
• leaving the EU is difficult
• made to advance the EU as whole, not individual countries
• pay fees
• can aid the movement of dangerous people
• a debt crisis of one country can take the economy of others down