It's one year since 10 new states joined the European Union, in the biggest expansion in its history.
The move led to the EU becoming the world's largest trading bloc, in terms of population, with 74 million new citizens taking the total to 455 million.
It also saw the EU's centre of gravity move eastward giving it a border with the former Soviet Union.
Has enlargement been good for Europe? Have the new members adjusted to life inside the bloc?
This debate is now closed. Read a selection of your comments below.
The following comments reflect the balance of opinion we have received so far:
The integration of Europe is necessary if Europe is to continue to be a player on the world stage. However, some sort of centralisation is needed if they want to be heard. Many eurosceptics continue to speak out against the EU, claiming it is a failure, since it is impossible to unite the many nationalities into one state. Yet all they have to do is take a look at the UK to see that unification of different nationalities can be successful. And the truth of the matter is that there is such a thing as being a European. Any European will understand what it is to be European as soon as they come visit the USA.
Gary, USA
 |  Europeans really must try to embrace their common differences |
Europe needs to unite if it is ever going to be a major economic and political force in the world. With the US much stronger than any single European country, and China and India on the rise, European nations need to come together. Now is certainly not the time to uphold the old nation-state model. Europeans really must try to embrace their common differences, and thus enlargement is necessary, although perhaps not at such a fast pace.
Chris Simmons, Cornwall The basic idea of the original treaty bringing the western European nations together was to ensure peace and stability in the region. Surely this should be offered to the ex-communist countries, where nationalism (e.g. Vladimir Zhirinovsky, Corneliu Vadim-Tudor) racism and instability (Moldova, former Yugoslavia) were very real threats. In essence, this is good for Europe in that we are widening our guarantees of peace, which is utmost above concerns such as prosperity and immigration. We should be breaking down barriers. Yes Europe is divided into distinct ethnicities and languages, but this shouldn't deter us from uniting. It's a poor view to say the EU will fail due to these differences, the type of attitude that creates problems from the outset.
Gareth, Wales
Big is not beautiful. We have a North/South divide in this country let alone European enlargement. Look at what happened with the UN and the Iraq war, Blair went ahead without the UN's approval - what chance does a 'United States of Europe' stand?
Roger Best, Wednesbury It was Britain that backed the Baltic States and gave most support to their early membership of the EU. And how have they repaid us? By trying to have our rebate withdrawn. There's gratitude for you.
Robert Readman, Bournemouth, UK
The original objective of the EU of reducing conflict and raising prosperity for its members is already a success. Unfortunately, the current crop of leaders feel that the only way of rallying for greater European Unity is that of anti-Americanism. In the long run this will prove to be destructive to Europeans. Any policy based on power and void of values is doomed to fail.
Andrew Moskowitz, Seattle, WA
Yes, without a doubt! For travellers, it is much easier to cross borders without have to show numerous visas. How wonderful to know that the bureaucracy of visa issuers has had to find real work to do. Now, if we could indeed require the Euro in all EU countries, we could put the money-changers and their profit making motive out of business. Sorry Britain, Switzerland, Scandinavia etc. from the perspective of a traveller, you lose on this one, as you cause a great irritant with your individual currencies.
Dr. Clarence Moore, Seoul, Korea
An old saying rewritten: "Join in haste, repent at leisure."
Brian Pritchard, Bergamo, Italy
Robb, Dublin - given that Britain is one of only three EU countries that pays in more than they take out you may miss us a lot more than you think. Who do you think paid for all those EU grants that revitalised Ireland's economy?
Peter, Nottingham
Whilst poorer countries that have nothing much to offer economically are joining the freebie bandwagon called Europe, we are seeing our lifestyles in the west decline due to increased competition in the markets, and an influx of clandestine immigration (from outside the EU). This immigration has been encouraged by the socialist Europeans in order to increase votes in their favour. The EU was supposed to make us stronger, and whilst we continue to believe this tale, we will keep our eyes closed to the fact that jobs are rapidly being lost to non-EU countries and our eventual colonisation by the Chinese will continue.
Matt Bristo, Norwich, UK
| Any enlargement without including Turkey will mean the EU will never reach a superpower role |
Any enlargement without including Turkey will mean the EU will never reach a superpower role economically and politically, and also, will never reach a level of role of avoiding conflict of civilizations.
Edi, Turkey I was interested to read Robb Dunphy's comments about the UK being ousted from the EU and not being missed. Surprise, surprise, Mr. Dunphy is from Ireland. Naturally he will be in awe of the EU, was it not the EU that gave Ireland millions of dollars some years ago to prop it up? Interesting if the EU decided to take it all back, then how much would hypocrites like Mr Dunphy love the EU? At least the UK doesn't rely on handouts to prosper.
David Williams, Melbourne, Australia
Expansion of EU, provided it's done wisely, is an excellent thing. All the talk bout immigrants has nothing to do with EU. Ever since the British and French empires fell these countries were overrun with immigrants. I am an immigrant, but have never felt as one since I learned to accept French way of life and values, and so should others. All the states together have not done as much for EU as EU has done for them. If British (or should I say English) dislike the EU so much they are free to leave it. Few will miss them.
Ivan Auguste, Paris
I want to thank the commentators who spell out the view that Turkey should be out on religious grounds. At least they are being honest. It is not a matter of somebody wanting to get in or be accepted. I can see that those already in are not happy. But Turkey is put into a dream pursuit by the ruling class as if joining EU will solve all problems. I think we should stay out and independent. We cannot change our religion (or split our country into couple pieces) just to be in the 'charismatic' EU.
Atakan Kubilay, Izmir Turkey
In theory, the EU should usher in a new age of European prosperity. Unfortunately, the vast differences between the UK, and say, Turkey (if it is admitted), could mean an end to cooperation. If the EU is to succeed, each member nation must make sure its people don't feel like their cultural identity is trodden on for the sake of Europe.
Loren Klick, Lake Villa, USA
As an ex-pat, I can see the results already. I hope the rich countries realise that migration goes from the poor countries to the rich, not the other way round. The Britain I knew and loved 30 years ago, will not be there in another 50 years, destroyed, not by armies, which she has defeated for centuries, but by her own unseeing and liberal population. I am very glad that I will not be alive to see it.
John, New Milford, USA
The EU has brought peace and a level of prosperity to what was a war ravaged continent. The only reason some UK and US citizens doubt the EU is because it presents a challenge to them as the only formidable force in the world. The other argument I've heard is that that the individual states are so unique they will never put their differences aside and be unified. People had a similar argument in the late 1700's when the British North American colonies formed a Union.
Mateo, Los Angeles, USA
I hope enlargement will continue and will allow Europe to have more power and influence. It has been lonely at the top and I look forward to the day we can blame Europe for all the world?s problems.
Chris Sullivan, San Diego USA> The enlargement is good for the European counties as a whole, but inside the countries you find minorities of big winners and majorities of potential losers due to increased capitalistic competition. Why should a majority of losers back a political system which makes them lose? The risk of increasing capitalism and shrinking social security is that people follow new Hitlers and we all lose our democracies and the EU will collapse. Therefore it is less evil to stop further expansion of the EU.
Ernst Dirk, Germany
I feel Robb from Ireland is very short minded not to see that Ireland is a major benefactor of the UK's input. Europe was better off when it was a common market (what we actually signed up for).
Dean, Hertford
I find that a lot of Europeans, especially those resident in the UK do not consider themselves part of a common theme. I come from India, where we have very successfully integrated different states that are culturally and linguistically diverse, at the same time remaining autonomous in terms of the local economy, education, police, agriculture etc. We have benefited enormously from being one unit rather than many states with each one looking out for itself. If India can manage this, with its many problems then why not Europe where we have higher levels of education and wealth.
SNG, Durham, UK
I have high hopes that a tightly unified Europe can make itself a major economic presence throughout the world. Maybe this is wishful thinking for now, but I'd like to one day see Russia admitted into the EU. The vast number of resources there, coupled with the leadership of the present EU would easily make the EU a powerful entity.
Chris Wolf, Seaside, USA
Culturally, we are not all of the same mind on key issues. This is why Europe has always been made of up small countries. The cultures, attitudes and languages are so distinct that it isn't possible for people to put loyalty to the EU above loyalty to their own region. That is why, ultimately, the EU will fail.
Phil, Bristol
I find some of the comments from the citizens of the UK amusing, especially considering the UK follows less of the EU than any other country. I even recently heard a rumour that the UK was soon to be ousted from the EU. I cannot say that they will be missed by those countries who like the European Union.
Robb Dunphy, Dublin, Ireland
I think that it is good for the development of the European Union in the coming years and gives Europe high power.
Nabil, Morocco
I think that the enlargement has been a huge success, it has proven that fears of both Western and Eastern European countries were groundless (huge influx of immigrants and bankruptcy of many companies respectively), but I believe that the process should continue and the EU should work closely with other Eastern European nations such as Georgia, Ukraine and Moldova as well as the Balkans to integrate these countries into the EU and extend the area of democracy, prosperity and rule of law.
George, London
Well, one year on from the ten new members joining and where is the influx of immigrants all the anti-Europeans warned us about? I've yet to see any. Turkey will one day be admitted to the EU and, as long as the conditions are right, this can only be a good thing.
John, Basingstoke, Hampshire
| EU enlargement is definitely a good thing, but it must stop somewhere |
EU enlargement is definitely a good thing, but it must stop somewhere, i.e. at the borders of Europe. For those who wish for Turkey to join as an EU-Middle East buffer zone, remember that buffer zones are usually found outside, rather than inside, the area one wishes to protect. Special relationship yes, membership no.
Andy, Greece Enlargement may be good for some in Europe, but is very bad for Britain. We have enough problems with illegal immigrants, the increased numbers of legal ones will push us too far.
David Brians, Nottingham
If the constitution does not pass then I think Europe will have to take a long hard look at any expansion beyond Bulgaria and Romania.
Matthew, New Orleans, USA
No, it hasn't been good for Europe. A political ambition has been achieved but the economic consequences have already begun to emerge. Enlargement has been too rapid and economic criteria for membership were fiddled. The French, for example, have suddenly woken up to what the effects on their comfortable lifestyle will be.
Ken, England
The idea that national identities are eroded in a union is nonsense. The union of England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, has done little to erode national identities, but plenty to promote common purpose and unity. I'm all for expansion and closer political ties, if the EU can be made more accountable and relevant to individuals.
Brian O'Connell, London, UK There is no turning back. The process of unification of post war Europe cannot be stopped. There will be negative side effects along the way, but the union will prevail.
Nelu, New York, USA
The enlargement is bad for the existing members and great for the new ones. Obviously due to political and demographic reasons Turkey should never ever be allowed to join. It will cause civil unrest and economic problems for the rest of the EU.
Joe, UK
Many in the UK seem to complain about the influx of legal immigration as jobs disappear because of them. However, the jobs are generally ones avoided by the British. If they want to do it, let them do it, don't criticise them for doing a job you don't want to do!
Paul Ebbens, East Dereham, United Kingdom
| The EU is no good to us in either the enlarged state or as it was when we were dragged in |
The EU is no good to us in either the enlarged state or as it was when we were dragged in. I only hope France rejects the Constitution and causes the collapse of the EU. We or some other state will reject it anyway but not before billions of Euros are spent on the various referendums.
Roger Smith, Birmingham The new countries were almost bribed to join by promises and cash incentives. When they realise they have joined a new version of the old USSR, they will want out.
Andy, Manchester, UK
Ever since its birth the EU has been enlarging, becoming more inclusive and more powerful. I'm told it's a bad thing, because before the united Europe we had freedom, self determination and of course two world wars with the slaughter of millions. I think I like the future with the EU better than the past without it.
RS, Glasgow, UK
I hope the people of the new member countries were told the whole truth about the implications of joining. The British people were not, and many of us now regret it.
David, Cornwall
The problem with many of the EU laws, goals and regulations, is that while there is a standard, there is no uniform enforcement. As one of my British friends reminds me, the Brits always line up behind the full spirit of the law, while the Germans and especially the French do what they perceive is in their national interest. So much for "one" policy!
Frederick D Clements, Washington DC, USA
It may be good for trade in general, but not good for business. Regulations of working hours and minimum wage vary across the EU countries which mean that some businesses will find it harder to compete against others with less red tape. I see an EU recession coming.
Jasdeep Singh, Derby, UK
| The most crucial thing about the expansion is that ex-communist states are in a state of great change |
The most crucial thing about the expansion is that ex-communist states are in a state of great change (Cyprus too, in a way.) This sense of dynamism is permeating into the generally staid and conservative West and giving a brilliant opportunity for all kinds of improvement. As long as the geriatric stick-in-the-muds like Mr Chirac are bypassed we will soon have a dynamic and optimistic environment with increasing wealth for all. This in turn will go a long way to addressing the ageing population etc.
Alex, Serbia The only good expanding the EU has done is allow foreigners to come here in their millions and erode our national identity and steal our jobs/lower our wages.
KT Bell, Bradford, England
Has enlargement been good for Europe? No, because too many states ie France protected their own interests. It has been incredibly wasteful with food mountains that have kept prices artificially high.
John Bell, Wantage
While the USA was sending troops to Iraq, they didn't need to get Germany or France serious. But with Turkey, Europe will be very more stronger politically. Also you'll have the chance to resist against China about industry.
Cem Yildiz, Istanbul, Turkey
| The EU is not out to create a 'European' identity and it is not about being pro or anti America |
Enlargement is good for the EU. It was set up back in the 1950s with a view to prevent conflicts and enlarging to take in even more states can only add to future peace in Europe. It really annoys me when people go on about the EU being some kind of evil entity which is going to destroy identities and cultures. The EU is not out to create a 'European' identity and it is not about being pro or anti America. The sooner people start to realise this the better.
Jen, UK Messages against Turkey's accession on the basis of religion here confirms my conviction that the EU societies are yet to fully emerge from the darkness of the Middle Ages in their mentality.
Levent, Turkey
I think enlargement will be good for the UK economically but there is still the concern about mass migration.
Raj, London
I believe that the way in which the EU is expanding so rapidly could tarnish its reputation as an economic and diplomatic powerhouse. I think that it's in the best interest of the EU to demand much more economic and political stability from prospective member states, in order to ensure that the EU is as strong as it is able to be.
Ethan Long, Medford, NJ, USA
| I think it's been good for Europe for geo-political reasons |
I think it's been good for Europe for geo-political reasons. However, Turkey should never be allowed in; there are limits to how big a nation or union can get.
Eric, Canada I believe the expansion of the EU is a good thing, it creates a challenge to US domination and also creates a mixing ground to start tearing down cultural barriers, which in the long run, is what is really needed in order for everyone to cooperate.
Anthony, Manchester, New England
I cannot help being deeply disappointed by the miserly attitudes of many in the EU's 15 original states. Many view the accession of relatively poor states into the EU fold as a drain on their resources and as a threat to their job markets. But isn't the EU supposed to be about giving poorer nations a fair go at economic development? And has the economic success of the likes of Ireland and Spain not proven that in the long run, aid to poorer countries benefits everyone?
Helen Smith, Philadelphia
Europe hasn't had a major war in 60 years now. As long as the EU works to keep peace in Europe, it's a success.
Stephen, Hamilton, Ohio, USA
EU countries that opened their borders to the workers of the enlarged Europe gained more than lost. First, immigrants registered with local authorities and started paying their income and local taxes. Before, many were simply working illegally. Second, the majority of immigrants are young people in their 20s and 30s, who can fill in jobs that ageing populations of Western Europe are able to do.
Edvardas Bumsteinas, Vilnius, Lithuania
| A more expansive EU will be a more powerful EU |
A more expansive EU will be a more powerful EU, which is exactly what is needed to balance the United States.
Thomas, Chicago, USA The expansion of the EU is fantastic! Before we felt as though we lived in the dark and now the light of democracy, freedom and justice has been shone into my world. The EU has saved my life!
Markus, Budapest, Hungary
It took Ireland hundreds of years to win our independence. Now we have given it away in a few years. For what? I am not against immigration, but Dublin is barely an Irish city anymore.
Paul O'Brien, Dublin
I am not in favour of the homogeneous concepts of the EU. The UK and other European nations should never give up their sovereignty to anyone.
Floyd Stanifer, USA
| Further expansion should now be halted for a period of consolidation and internal strengthening |
I think it is something of a mixed blessing. The EU needs strength to embrace and digest new members, however at this point in time the EU structure is weakening. Further expansion should now be halted for a period of consolidation and internal strengthening. Although on the whole I am positive about the ideals of why the EU should expand and what expansion has achieved to date.
Jamie, UK Yes it is good for Europe. The new 10-12 countries are now adjusting even if it looks sloppy, they are doing their jobs. As for job loss, if it's not Eastern Europe, it's China. Job loss is a major problem in the US as in most of the well developed countries and solutions are hard to find.
Lucian, Constanta, Romania
Three quarters of Romania is terribly excited about joining the EU. Unfortunately (or fortunately) we are an optimistic people proffering to see the full half of the glass. But there is the half empty one as well.
Dragos Cojocari, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
Enlargement has been good for the bureaucrats, whatever their nationality! These events make Switzerland more appealing by the day.
John B, Milton Keynes, UK
It always amazes me to hear people say, "our laws are now being made by unelected bureaucrats". So what's the difference? Laws are always drafted by civil servants. They are passed by parliaments, whether national or the EU parliament, and that's what matters. Our representatives in Europe are elected and as accountable as our national politicians - if, of course, people bother to vote.
Luke Harris, Cork, Ireland
I hope we are not going to rush in judgment of EU enlargement. This is the event which will take several generations to exploit in full. I think the EU Constitution is failing precisely because it comes hastily from politicians, rather than European people themselves. The EU, as it is, for the first time in many centuries has unified people living on this continent. Something that took so long to shape up, shouldn't be judged momentarily.
Ihar Filipau, Minsk, BelarusNo way. And enlargement is certainly not good for Britain. It's time for England, Scotland and Wales to assert our independence, and to reconvene the English Parliament.
Steve E, Staffordshire, England.
I know that things like people's jobs are very important for those concerned, but if you look at the bigger picture, former dictatorships that have joined the EU have become rock solid democracies, like Spain. Considering that two world wars were fought in and over Eastern Europe isn't it in everybody's interest to have democracy in that region? Some farmers getting lower subsidies and a Volkswagen plant relocating to Slovakia seems a small price to pay to me!
Chris Stevens, London
The EU reminds me of someone determined to put a jigsaw puzzle together even though the parts don't fit. Adding more wrong pieces won't make them fit any better.
Mark, USA
Enlargement has been good. It's brought in new blood countries that are eager to create competitive economies through deregulation and low taxation. This is of course a big shock for the old-timers like France and Germany who see their regulatory stranglehold slipping away as businesses relocate to the new accession states within the EU. I like the new model Europe of dynamic, aggressive capitalism and hope it spreads to France and Germany before it's too late for these old economic dinosaurs.
Dave Moran, Near Aberdeen, Scotland It's great for two reasons. First, free trade and movement of goods, capital and people benefit everybody. Second, the bigger it gets, the less likely there is to be a European State. As for peace, what rubbish! Peace came through NATO (remember that military alliance?), the threat of the Soviet Union (why fight each other?), prosperity, and of course nuclear weapons. Germany was never going to invade France or attack the UK again when they both had the ability to obliterate Germany.
Tim, London, UK
The new makeup of the EU and the potential destabilisation of Western economies due to the arrival of Eastern countries are more concerning to me than the war on terrorism. New Eastern countries could easily destabilise the EU and bring everybody down. Personally, I feel the arrival of Poland, Turkey etc should mean a clear signal for the UK to pull out.
Andy, Llanelli
The EU is just a gravy train for non-elected commissioners who run it for their own benefit.
Phil, Oxford, UK
Enlargement has been very good for Europe. First, the European Union has managed to bring the unity into the European family of different nations, and people from the EU member states have got their common identity. Secondly, the European Union has helped the new member states to develop their economies. I admire the European Union and wish it all the best! We have to value and appreciate our common heritage, our cultures and languages, and the European Union has played the major role in it. Vive l'Europe!
Valentin Rimdjonok, Ottawa, Canada (EU citizen)
| Free movement of capital and people over national borders brings benefits to all |
Enlargement spreads the qualities of each member state to the group. Free movement of capital and people over national borders brings benefits to all. The UK's greatest win came when we decided to open borders to all the new 'eastern block' entrants. We learn from those who come to work here and they in turn take home their knowledge of the UK's values and culture. Our economic growth while others were in recession can be attributable to the government's bold decision on the movement of working people.
John Gilbert, Kent It should enlarge no further, at least for now. We should address the problems of the current member states, both new and old, before we commit to further expansion.
Alex Mangan, Swindon, UK
For better or for worse the EU will not show its full potential as a superpower until the UK stops siding with the USA while holding a foot in the EU. A United States of Europe, and a national identity to that effect would be great, but thousands of years of wars, division and different languages make it a utopia.
Brian, Gibraltar
| As far as Slovenia goes the effects are mixed |
As far as Slovenia goes the effects are mixed. Our labour is not as cheap as in some of the other countries like Slovakia and taxes are higher. We, too, are losing some hard won social benefits as companies warn they will look to Slovakia and elsewhere for cheaper costs. For most people not much has change though.
Damjan Franz, Slovenia It's too soon to tell. A year is a blink of an eye in historical terms. Looking on the medium term, we haven't had a major Western/Central European war in 60 years and that breaks the record so thumbs up there. I'd rather we were fighting with words about regulations and taxes and trading rules than fighting with blood about territory.
Katherine, London
As a graduate of Modern European Studies, I feel that enlargement had the potential to fail but the way it was set out has been a relative success. There have been no major horror stories and the ten accession countries seemed to have settled into life in the EU well. Of course, the only problem left is how the Parliament hopes to pass any regulations - now 25 countries have to all agree in order to change legislation within the Union. Good luck!
Chris, Liverpool
Enlargement is good for poorer countries in the bloc, but it's really bad for rich countries, like Italy which is struggling for its economy.
Ishtiaque Ahmed, Rome, Italy Recently a group of people were convicted of a credit-card skimming offence in a town near us. They came from - guess where - Eastern Europe. If these are the benefits of enlargement, we can do without them.
Richard, Gloucestershire
The enlargement of the EU seems to be benefiting both the former and new countries. Time will tell, but it has been a good start. Britain will benefit more only when the British government bothers to explain the merits and detail the constitution better.
Bill Potter, Telford
I believe in an independent UK with the ability to make our own laws in parliament. Being a member of the EU means unelected bureaucrats making our laws. We fought to keep our identity and we should not be giving it up to Brussels.
Kelvin Baines, Plymouth
No, it has not. The latest spate of additions to the EU looked like a rush-job and an enlargement for the sake of an enlargement. Each country within the EU has a distinctive culture and its own specific state of economic development. The EU now has very little homogeneity and the variance in economic development is just too large. Bureaucracy will inevitably have to expand and one wonders whether a point of diminishing returns has been crossed. Turkey's membership of the EU (if, indeed, it happens) will only make matters worse. It is difficult to see how ordinary Europeans benefit from this enlargement.
RR, London, UK
| Our greed and desire to rival the US has put us in a bad position |
Being "European" is not a nationality or a race. Because of this, unity will be difficult to achieve as each geographic region has its own nationality and loyalty to its own. There are a multitude of different languages with no one language as the main language. People from the new, poorer member countries leave for the west for more opportunities leaving huge voids in the workforce in the countries they left. This slows progress in those countries. Overpopulation of the western European countries due to that immigration, has its own set of problems. I'm afraid our greed and desire to rival the US has put us in a bad position.
Simon, Munich The expansion of the EU to the east, is the worst thing which ever could have happened to Europe. A co-operation with the former communist countries would have brought us all a lot more. Now the old communists call themselves democrats and are sucking the financial strength of Europe to a point where the whole economy could collapse. Workers are pouring in from the east who pay no contributions to social insurance and are so able to work for wages which ruin complete branches of industry and trade in the west.
Kenneth Ingle, Bielefeld, Germany
I am all for EU enlargement to 25 or 30 countries. I would like to see greater stability in the Commission with one or two commissioners per country and perhaps one or two junior commissioners per country with an equal vote. I am not in favour of Turkey joining the EU because it is largely a Muslim country and Europe is mostly Christian and I think this would lead to conflict of ideologies.
Lesley McDade, Edinburgh
For some it is good - the EU was great for Ireland, bad for Britain (who rushed to join without studying the small print!) Eventually there will be a European president and he will almost certainly be German or a German backed nominee; there is no possibility he/she will be English. Unfairly, the British are generally disliked throughout the EU and will therefore always do badly within it; in principal the EEC should be good for the UK, in practice it will not be so. Similarly joining the Euro (while good for some countries) would be a long term disaster for UK. So the expansion of the EU is generally good for many but not for Britain.
Steve Ronald, Cyprus
It is bad for the EU giants like Germany and France but obviously beneficial for the weaker ones like Slovakia and Latvia.
Arvind, Germany
| Short term problems will be overcome and the long term benefit will become more and more obvious |
If the Unification of Europe ultimately works well, it will be a model for other Nations and eventually the world as a whole. Personally, I believe that, even with the many "bumps", it is a benefit to Europe by giving it more power economically in comparison with larger Nations like the US and China. There will ultimately be a balancing within Europe itself which will help ease the current disparity that has been caused by this "unification." Short term problems will be overcome and the long term benefit will become more and more obvious.
John, NJ, USA If people in Western Europe find Brussels bureaucracy difficult, they can consider themselves well off. Many civil servants in Eastern Europe are still struggling with the legacy of Soviet bureaucracy so the pile of EU rules and regulations they now have to deal with as well finding their way forward through the morass of old Soviet bureaucracy is more than they can cope with.
John, Vilnius, Lithuania
If it works as a trading block and generates wealth and power it will be a success. If the poor Eastern members are in it to freeload then it will become trouble and they will need to be detached again. Europe must work as an economic giant this century especially with China coming up as a power. China will need a counterbalance. No doubt America will be in decline, every dog has its day, and we need a power to replace the US, after they have degenerated into internal interracial conflict and collapsed.
David Perry, UK
It is certainly not easy to adjust diverse and longstanding regimes in the wink of an eye, and the Union has yet managed to create a vast area where goods and people can circulate freely. On the political side, however, if the objective was to set up a new world power to counterbalance the existing giants (China, USA, India, and so on), then the EU may well be considered as a dismal failure. All in all, the EU project is a remarkable initiative to promote peace and solidarity amongst several European nations, but much more work needs to be done towards the strengthening of the diplomatic weight of the Union.
Tarek Cheniti, Tunisia
It has become a necessity to ally economically into viable trading blocs as the US has become increasingly aggressive in acquiring goods they deem to be desirable while at the same time being protectionists of the production of these goods. I for one wish we in Canada had the option of joining a organisation like the EU rather than be in the position of being overrun by the American Elephant.
Bill Hamilton, Canada
| The views of individuals and even countries will be more diluted in an EU government |
If some people think the EU will better represent their views and magically solve social and economic problems, they're living in a pipe dream. The views of individuals and even countries will be more diluted in an EU government, not better heard. Once you give up your input to the culture, economy, laws and traditions, there will be more stress on people as they try to adapt to something that is alien to them. If you can't control your government now, then you won't under the EU either.
Chrisse, Houston, Texas I think EU enlargement is a great thing. I would personally extend the EU zone to the Middle East and North Africa and beyond, if those countries wish to join. After all, Israel takes part in the Eurovision song contest! The idea of a federal EU is an ill conceived plan, but the EU as a trading block is a fantastic idea, and in order to fulfil its full potential the EU should expand as much as possible.
Dan, UK (working in US)
I'm saddened to read the comments slating the integration of different nations, both on trade and borders. The more we try to move together, the more people try to pull us apart. Why? And to what end?
Steve Massey, Cheltenham, UK
If the EU constitution was designed and decided on with 15 members, then adding as many countries as it takes to become a world player again would have been ok. The problem is that it is so hard to design the basis of a future European federal state with 25 countries in the pot with each one pulling her rope. Nevertheless, 10 countries at once are a bit much too handle at once. In conclusion, too many too fast before the basis was laid out clearly.
RM Oussalah, Paris, France The EU is getting too big too fast. It even allows pro-US countries to join. The EU must limit itself to countries dedicated to opposing Washington. This is how the EU will make history.
Mel, London
The EU is great for large businesses. However, I am afraid that Wal-Mart or other large corporations will take over Europe, and small businesses will be unable to compete. No one wants a Wal-Mart on every corner.
Patti, Minneapolis, USA
The EU is partly about free movement of workers. The new member states should be welcomed and thus their workforce should have equal rights to work everywhere in the EU. At least for Finland the shifting of balance to the East and to the North is only beneficial. Big countries (of which Poland is one) are in my opinion the real problem for the EU now.
Pertti Virtanen, Espoo, Finland
Sadly, no. An analogy can be made by drawing a parallel with running a business. If the business expands too quickly it runs out of cash and goes broke! Just because the EU has a license to print money does not mean it should defy good sense.
Tim Rollinson, Tonbidge, UK
I returned to Europe last September after spending four years in the US. The composition of the population in Europe is changing much faster than what I remembered. Deep social and economic changes are happening now. The problem of integration is indeed most urgent. Europeans don't be afraid - there's a lot to be done!
Fabio, Eindhoven, The Netherlands The enlargement of the EU is not a good thing. It has become a bureaucratic monster that will force many numbers of largely different countries to give up their individual cultures, government structure, and laws. Has anyone ever thought that instead of "uniting" Europe, all this could become a source of tension and conflict.
Paul, New Jersey, USA
Been good for Europe probably, but that does not mean good for the UK. When people move into my road voluntarily, I am not expected to pick up their mortgage and utility bills but that is what is happening with the newcomers into the EU, they come in and we pay. What adds insult to injury, is that these newcomers then have the effrontery to tell the UK how to run its affairs. The benefits of the EU belong to others certainly not the UK.
Mike Hall, Kingham, UK
Yes, of course it is good. I am from about the first generation of British people who have not had to lay down their lives in huge numbers in wars between European states. We also need to get closer to the enlarged Europe since the current US administration is, sadly, no ally worth the name.
Tony Fisher, York, UK
Malta's membership of the European Union has so far left a positive impact on the country. Reforms now happen much faster and the Maltese economy seems to be picking up.
Angelo Micallef, Malta
| No political entity can get so large that it can survive |
No it has not. No political entity can get so large that it can survive and bearing in mind the origin of many of the problems that Europe faced, it has now incorporated those problems. The reality is that this is an edifice that will not survive. The only real solution is to go back to an EFTA style agreement.
Tony, Welling, Kent Only when political, rather than economic, unity has been achieved will the EU be fully actualised. The United States of Europe sounds grand but will individual states such as Britain and France accept a status equivalent to, say, California rather than to the United States as a whole?
Suzanne Hudson, Leeds, UK
My colleagues and I were immediately kicked out of our jobs because moving the work to Eastern Europe was cheaper. No more taxes paid to the UK. Most of my colleagues drew welfare benefits (your taxes) while I left the UK/EU permanently, taking my skills/money with me. If you're happy with this fine, just don't fuss when your taxes go soaring.
Kit, Ex UK, Ex EU
I get along with my neighbours as we have a common interest but I do not allow them to tell me how to run my household or hold on to the purse strings. For all of the politicians' fancy words that is the bottom line and that is human nature. I do not worry about a republic of European states because it is getting so big and unmanageable now that it will soon implode with the forces being applied by political and vested interests.
Ron Milligan, Gosport, England
| I don't believe this drain of people and resources is healthy for Lithuania |
Many Lithuanians have "adjusted" to life in the European Union by leaving Lithuania to make money by working in the UK and Ireland. I don't believe this drain of people and resources is healthy for Lithuania. Looking out my window this morning, people are still scavenging in rubbish skips for food. The choices for them remain limited.
Serone, Lithuania Of course it's been good. Together Europe can be powerful and prosperous. As for giving up our powers - what rubbish! The PR system of voting in Europe means that my views are more likely to be represented in the European Parliament where it rarely is in the UK one. Where policy areas are shared across Europe then of course those things should be decided on a European level by all the people of Europe. This gives us more democracy to the individual in Europe than we currently have at a national level. Of course those that don't bother to take up their vote in Europe can moan that they are losing their powers.
Phil, UK
Enlargement has not been good for Europe, as we should have created a federal structure before enlargement. This has now become much more difficult to achieve. Furthermore, some of the newcomers support the United States politically and economically. With such member countries, I cannot feel patriotic about Europe any more. I think that this may well be the reason why people are no longer enthusiastic about Europe in France. We have traitors in our midst!
Marc Monset, France
Of course it is a good thing - it is a further consummation of the aims and objective of the founding fathers of the European Union, set up to make European countries interdependent to ensure that major wars like those of 1914-18 and 1939-45 cannot happen again. In this it has succeeded beyond the expectations of the Schumann Plan. The sooner Europe is more closely integrated the better. Those who whinge about loss of sovereignty should think very carefully as to whether a small loss of independence is worth maintaining peace and stability in an area which historically has been very volatile. I know I'm happy to be less independent and free from fear of war from other European states
Pauline Fothergill, Halifax, United Kingdom
Look around the museums in any European country. In each one you will find details of conflicts going back over 2000 years. The EU isn't perfect, it is bureaucratic and could be more democratic. However, isn't it better that we come together in peace and cooperation rather than in the wars of conquest, ideology and nationalism that have plagued our continent?
Colin Walls, Wilmslow, UK
The concept of Europe or being European has never made a big impact on my life so why would the addition of another 10 states have made a difference.
Katherine, Edinburgh
I do not believe that enlargement and greater integration are in the favour of large economic powers such as Germany and France. They should study their British counterpart on opting out of some of the EU guidelines.
Hunter, Greenville, USA
| Europe is all about solidarity to prevent wars |
It's a complex question and the only answer is: yes and no. Yes, because the standard of living of the new comers has significantly increased. And no as some "advanced" countries like Holland had to give up some of their health and advantages for it. Europe is all about solidarity to prevent wars.
Xavier, France We, the old fifteen EU counties, have more benefits in enlarging the EU then the new ones. Countries such as Poland or Romania are going to lose their social, cultural and economical life, and adopt new ones that do not fit in their culture. The EU enlargement is a new crusader against Eastern Europe, but this time, it is done by economy and culture.
Vincent, Paris, France
Speaking as a concerned US citizen, I would like to see you succeed, because I want you to keep us honest. Please grow in your efforts in support of dignity and justice for all people, and continue to inspire us towards greater efforts to do the same.
David Stephen Ball-Romney, Seattle, USA
The world is but one world, and the sooner we can dispense with some 200 different governments with disparate ideologies, the sooner we can be one world in reality.
Des Currie, Umdloti, South Africa
In 1964 my country, Malta, became independent. I recall information leaflets at the Malta International trade fair about the European Economic Community. I wished that someday Malta would join. It took 40 years. It's good to belong to a neighbourhood of countries with similar goals and ideals. We have to work together in order to compete with an increasingly more powerful China. United we stand - divided we fall. I'm positive about the future of our continent, although we have to work at it.
Joe Scicluna, Attard, Malta I think it is a great thing for European nations, and especially for former communist nations. It is a way of distributing economic prosperity more equally among European countries and making transactions more efficient. Plus, it is a way of putting the US in place.
Cristian Nyari, NYC, USA
How much is it costing the citizens of the UK to pay for this expansion?
Bryan, New England, USA
I'm sure it will be a good thing for the people in countries that value hard work. Unfortunately, the traditional leaders of Europe are not among them. We'll see if the French and Germans prefer a competitive marketplace over working 35 hours per week, 10 months per year.
John, Ossining, USA
Well it has certainly speeded up the time it will take for the EU to collapse. In the longer term this is good for the world, so yes it has been good.
Matt Davies, Woking, UK
| The inequalities which exist are too broad - it was too soon to bring in so many new countries |
No, it has not been good for Europe. The countries in the east are poor and their people are being exploited by criminal gangs, who sell young women and adolescents as sex slaves to the western European countries causing all sorts of problems for the western countries. The inequalities which exist are too broad and it was too soon to bring in so many new countries. We should learn from this mistake.
Graham, Leeds, UK I am very happy about the joining of new members. It means someone else to take some of the strain of refugees and immigrants and to chip in on the huge subsidies that we pay to French farmers to sit around producing food that no one wants or needs.
Richard Scott, Iver UK
It we go into a European alliance, how long will it be before we go into a Yugoslav type war to regain our independence?
Dave S, Carnforth, UK
I don't think that 1 year is enough time to judge if this has been good for (a) the countries that joined the EU and (b) the other countries. I think this may take another 10 years or so before we can finally judge if it has been a good or bad idea
Joe, Ireland
The new states will soon learn the reality of being part of the EU when they are required to give away all their powers and sign up for the Euro, EU Constitution and in time an EU government/army/police force etc.
Anonymous
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