1. The European Union (EU)

2. HISTORY O Started after WWII O The whole world was a DISASTER O Share resources O WHOLE IDEA= no fighting whatsoever

3. PURPOSE O Promote unity (flag stands as symbol) O Solve conflicts between countries O Cooperation O Increase economic growth (war torn) O Make Europe a strong world power again

4. BENEFITS O Even out economy and stabilize O Free trade O Currency is the same= EURO O Can move wherever, whenever between member countries

5. DISADVANTAGE O Fighting= culture and religious differences O Strong countries being “pulled under” by weaker countries (economics) O Lose political independence O Countries don’t want people moving in and out O Loss of culture and identity O Euro

6. NON-MEMBER STATES Why they refuse to join the EU

7. Albania O Only reason: have not filled out the application and turned it in

8. Iceland O Physical location: far away- not part of continent O Not as easy trade or travel due to location O Being considered by the EU right now- 28 th ??

9. Norway O People do not want to join O Fishing is #1 concern O Claim they get enough benefits as it is so why lose their power

10. Switzerland O Country motto: NEUTRALITY O Votes were taken and the people said no O Claim they get enough benefits as it is so why lose their power

11. Turkey O Application was denied O Civil Rights issue

12. MONTENEGRO SERBIA BOSNIA MACEDONIA REASONS: New(er) countries Plan on joining Some do not yet meet requirements

13. RUSSIA BELARUS UKRAINE MOLDOVA REASONS: Not stable enough Not a strong enough market economy Human rights violations