Far Right Thinking
By Monica Granlove
I write this post in reference to the article, 'What’s at Stake with the 2024 European Parliament Elections?'1' posted by Center for Strategic and International Studies about the impact of the European Union (EU) vote. We are a global society so anything that happens in one part of the world affects another part. I find the growth in number of people supporting the far-right viewpoints to be curious. Have the lessons from history become meaningless?
History and Purpose of European Union
Nestled just northeast of Hamburg, Ahrensburg Castle, or Schloss Ahrensburg in German, stands as a magnificent example of Renaissance-style architecture with roots dating back to the late 16th century. Enveloped by a picturesque park, this castle welcomes the public to explore its historic halls.
I remember when the EU came to being. I was in college studying Economics. Professor Wadman talked about the positive impacts of the EU.
The EU's history is marked by a series of treaties and expansions. The Maastricht Treaty of 1992 formally established the European Union and introduced the concept of European citizenship, along with a common foreign and security policy. The Treaty of Amsterdam (1997), the Treaty of Nice (2001), and the Treaty of Lisbon (2007) further reformed the EU's institutional structure and decision-making processes.
The goals of the EU are multifaceted and include promoting economic integration and a single market, ensuring the free movement of goods, services, people, and capital, and fostering social progress and environmental protection. The EU aims to maintain peace and stability in Europe, uphold the rule of law, and protect human rights and democracy. It also seeks to enhance Europe's global influence through a unified foreign and security policy.
Economically, the EU has introduced the euro, a common currency adopted by 19 of its member states, which facilitates easier trade and economic stability. The EU also strives for sustainable development and innovation, investing in research and technology, and addressing global challenges such as climate change.
The European Union's history reflects its evolution from a primarily economic coalition to a comprehensive political and economic union. Its goals encompass economic integration, political stability, social progress, and global influence, all aimed at ensuring peace, prosperity, and cooperation among its member states.
Far right leaders are being voted in! Are they truly the leader you want?
Endnotes
1CSIS:What’s at Stake with the 2024 European Parliament Elections?
2World Bank:On Education
