The European Economy

By: Amanda Cancel

 

Europe was faced with a specific economic issue. On September 18th, 2014 a referendum on Scottish independence was called upon. The secession from the United Kingdom was unsuccessful because of the effect it would have on the economy of Europe.

Because Scotland is eight percent of the United Kingdom’s population, it holds 106.3 billion euros of goods and services. The euro is the single currency that all 28 members of the European Union use and follow common laws that guarantee freedom of movement for people, goods, and services.The euro made Europe free to do business across the economic bloc and gives unrestricted access to 500 million consumers, so they have a solid basis to stay competitive in the world economy. The euro unified the countries of the European Union. Scotland’s failed attempt at  secession is a counterexample of a group that wanted to break away from the Union.Scotland is a democratic country and is a representative democracy. If it stayed a part of the United Kingdom, the European Union would’ve accepted it as its 29th member The European Union promotes human rights both for itself and around the world.  Human dignity, freedom, democracy, equality, the rule of law and respect for human rights are the core values of the European Union.

 To promote equality, the European Union follows a set of rules called Guidelines, addresses discrimination as well as violence against women.

 United Nations Commission on the Status of Women works with the European Union to promote women’s rights and eliminates all forms of violence against women.

The United Nations Security Council resolution 1325 stresses the importance of equal participation and full involvement in all efforts for the maintenance and promotion of peace and security.