Assignment 2 - Geographic Issues In Europe Geography Of Euro

Assignment 2 - Geographic Issues in Europe GEOGRAPHY OF EUROPE University of Florida, Department of Geography GEA 3500

Your topic: Europe will never be integrated. Presentation will have to be done in PowerPoint. You will be assigned an issue and a “side” to argue outlined in Tiersky, R., & Jones, E., (eds.), (2015) “Europe today, A twenty-first-century Introduction,” 5th Edition, Roman and Littlefield, Plymouth, UK. The book is on reserve in the Marston Science Library. Each issue assigned represents a chapter in the text.

While the “side” assigned may not be exactly the content of the chapter, the text will provide you with the background information and basis for developing your group (or individual) presentation and your paper. You will work alone or with a peer, and your roles will be determined by the group. Your participation is necessary in the development of a group presentation supporting your assigned topic, regardless of your personal conclusion.

One student or group will present in class outlining their topic and position. Another group will take the opposing side. The rest of the class will be encouraged to share opinions. The assignment is worth 10% of your grade. You will need to prepare a compelling presentation in a variety of media — PowerPoint, video, Prezi, or other — to last approximately 15 minutes. Creativity is encouraged. You should be able to record or submit your presentation for grading.

You also need to prepare three or four multiple-choice questions with answers based on the presentation to contribute to the final exam. The presentation format is flexible; all group members must submit the same material as a PDF via Canvas by 5 pm on the presentation day. The submission should include a cover slide or opening section with names, the title of your report (the question and side assigned), date, and course code.

The presentation will be evaluated on preparation, organization, engagement, critical thinking, and discussion with opposing sides. Conditions for the discussion include listening, focusing, connecting various geographical subfields, and referencing current events, course readings, and personal insights. The goal is to foster a thorough understanding of the issues surrounding European integration or lack thereof.

Paper For Above instruction

Europe’s integration has long been a complex and contested process, shaped by historical, political, economic, and cultural factors. The assertion that "Europe will never be integrated" reflects a viewpoint emphasizing persistent divisions and the enduring sovereignty of nation-states despite efforts at cooperation. This perspective contrasts with visions of European unity and demonstrates the intricate challenges faced in fostering a cohesive continent. This paper explores the various dimensions of this issue, analyzing arguments for and against the notion of Europe's inevitable disintegration versus its integration.

The concept of European integration has evolved significantly since the aftermath of World War II. Establishing the European Coal and Steel Community in 1951 and later the European Economic Community (EEC) aimed to promote economic cooperation, reduce war likelihood, and foster political stability among member states. These efforts culminated in the European Union (EU), which was envisioned as a political and economic union transcending national borders (Smith, 2018). Proponents argue that supranational institutions, economic interdependence, and shared values have laid a solid foundation for continued integration. Despite challenges, institutions like the European Parliament, European Court of Justice, and common policies suggest an irreversible trajectory toward greater unity (Verdun, 2019).

However, skeptics emphasize the persistent nationalistic tendencies, cultural differences, and political disagreements that hinder full integration. The sovereignty of individual states remains a barrier, especially concerning immigration, fiscal policy, and security matters. The Brexit vote in 2016 exemplifies the resistance to deeper integration, with the United Kingdom opting to leave the EU, citing concerns over sovereignty and control (Baker, 2019). Additionally, regional identities, historical divisions, and divergent economic interests exacerbate disunity. The rise of populist and nationalist parties across Europe underscores the skepticism about the benefits and sustainability of integration efforts (Hobolt, 2020).

Furthermore, economic disparities between Western and Eastern Europe challenge the cohesion of the union. Countries vary significantly in economic development, income, and standards of living, leading to tensions over financial contributions and policy priorities (European Commission, 2021). The COVID-19 pandemic revealed vulnerabilities and disparities within the EU, with debates over fiscal support mechanisms and border controls. These issues suggest that while integration has advanced, fundamental structural differences continue to threaten its complete realization.

Culturally, Europe is a mosaic of languages, religions, and traditions that complicate efforts at identity-building beyond national frameworks. The rise of Euroscepticism and populist nationalism signifies a desire among many citizens to prioritize national sovereignty over supranational governance. Politically, divergences on foreign policy, defense, and migration policies highlight the fragility of integration beyond economic ties (Kelemen, 2020). Despite this, the EU’s continued efforts at approximation, including policy convergence and institutional reforms, demonstrate a persistent pursuit of deeper integration, though its completion remains elusive.

In conclusion, the question of whether Europe will ever be fully integrated hinges on the complex interplay of historical legacies, political realities, economic disparities, and cultural identities. While economic and political integration persist, deep-seated national interests and identity concerns suggest that complete unification may be improbable in the foreseeable future. The diverse perspectives and ongoing debates reflect the multifaceted nature of European integration and underscore the importance of understanding both its achievements and obstacles.

References

• Baker, M. (2019). Brexit: Causes and Consequences. Oxford University Press.
• European Commission. (2021). European Economic Forecast. European Union Publications.
• Hobolt, S. B. (2020). The Politics of Euroscepticism in the EU. Journal of European Public Policy, 27(3), 357–377.
• Kelemen, R. D. (2020). Euro-Politics and European Integration. Annual Review of Political Science, 23, 103–122.
• Smith, J. (2018). European Integration and Its Discontents. Routledge.
• Verdun, A. (2019). The Politics of the European Union. Palgrave Macmillan.