Originally posted by archer_007
Question i felt like this would be the best place to ask:
What is the point/function of the European Parliament?
I know they have some power, although I think it is mostly what on would define as 'soft' power. The way I percieve it they a) help in exposing corruption in the commision and among the member states, although thay can't do much about it at present b) the individual members of parliament act as the connection between the average voter and the EU. That is they often seek to spark debates about current issues. Since they don't have to toe the national line or dance to the tune of the commision they are worth listening to. So they act as the conscience of the EU.
When do you see, if you see it at all, Europe intergrated into one state?
I think that in the area of trade, monetary policy, external tarifs, aerospace and agricultural and energy policy Europe is highly integrated. In fact in terms of energy policy I would say it is most integrated region in the world, even more than the US. In areas of immigration, environment, taxation and education Europe is only partially integrated - the problem here seems that some countries like Denmark and the UK want a free ride. That is mainly because they are not as socially advanced as the rest of the EU.
When it comes to defence and foreign policy Europe is not very integrated. The defence conglomerates are integrated, but only France, Germany and the Benelux countries seem interested in creating an European Army. Actually the creation of an independent European defence force is something I think should not recieve a very high priority. In terms of foreign policy Europe is split, however that is because many pro-war governments didn't have the courage to listen to the people.
What do you see being the primary language?
I don't see anything wrong with using English as a common language. however it is important that people who feel uncomfortable using the English language should still be able to communicate so the current policy of providing each language with an official equal status is a sound one.
How widespread is the English language in European nations?
It is widespread among the young and well educated. I can see that there is a problem with the large number of people who are not able to understand English, since they will feel left out and perhaps feel spiteful towards European integration for that reason.
Would you prefer being ruled from Brussels (or any other site that could be chosen) or by your current government?
Depends on who is ruling your own country doesn't it? I would say that presently I am fairly satisfied that the EU is working for the good of common humanity - especially when I compare with the government in my own country and some other countries as well.
Do you see the US as a threat to European intergration?
Not really. Although the current administration in Washington is making a fuss about anti-americanism in Europe I believe that perception will disappear after a while. Perhaps in 2004. I don't really believe that their policy of inducing fear is something that will bring Europe together. It is up to the Europeans themselves, to decide what they want.
I can see some potential trouble on the horizon if the economy takes a further plunge in the US and the administration wants to divert attention away from it.
In any case I think the European central bank and the commision needs to introduce some control on the expansion of the Euro monetary bloc. Specifically some checks will have to be imposed so as not to allow oil producing countries to provoke intervention by recieving their payments for oil in Euros in stead of as presently US dollars. At the same time the US central bank needs to be a bit more responsible when it comes to expanding the money supply, if they want to keep OPEC in line.
At the same time both the US and Europe must make sure that free trade is further institutionalized so as not allow for sudden off-the-head by fiat trade barriers. I also think that the European public needs more information on what are the potential, if any, dangers og GM foods. The idea of opening the market to such produce, while at the same time putting warning stamps on it is problably the best avenue for the time being, but there needs to be some closure on the subject.
