European Integration and Decolonization in the 20th Century
European Integration and Decolonization
The European Union
Following World War II, deep mistrust permeated European relations. French Minister Robert Schuman’s call for joint control of coal and steel production marked the beginning of the European Union. The establishment of the European Coal and Steel Community (ECSC) in 1951, based on Schuman’s proposal, aimed to prevent future conflict by integrating these key industries. However, the Union’s peacekeeping role remained limited. The 1995 enlargement to fifteen member states preceded the 1997 Treaty of Amsterdam, which expanded the European Parliament’s powers and fostered common policies on employment and external security. The treaty also established the High Representative for the Common Foreign and Security Policy (CFSP) and proposed free movement of people and capital, implementing the Schengen Agreement. Common environmental and social policies were also adopted. The introduction of the euro in 2002 and the Treaty of Nice in 2001 furthered institutional reform. Currently, the EU comprises 27 countries, with Turkey’s candidacy remaining a contentious issue. The 2007 Treaty of Lisbon, serving as a constitution, aimed to strengthen common institutions and the EU’s global presence.
The Supranational Nature of the EU
The European Union is a supranational institution, holding sovereignty exceeding that of its member states. This structure addresses the post-war distrust and promotes cooperation.
Decolonization
Causes of Decolonization
Decolonization, the process by which colonies gain independence, is driven by factors such as population growth, resistance against colonial powers, poverty, nationalist movements, and increased exploitation. Post-World War II, weakened colonial powers faced strengthened independence movements, fueled by promises of freedom and democracy. The U.S. and USSR’s opposition to colonialism, along with UN support and public opinion, further contributed to this process.
The Emergence of the Third World
Solidarity and Challenges
From the mid-20th century, newly independent states united to address the lingering economic control of former colonial powers. Political instability, often due to arbitrarily drawn borders, was a significant challenge. Early manifestations of solidarity included the Asian conference in New Delhi and the Bandung Conference, which affirmed self-determination, equality, non-interference, and peaceful coexistence. The term “Third World” denotes countries characterized by low per capita income, high population growth, poverty, and economic dependence on the primary sector. The North-South divide highlights the disparities between wealthy and poor nations.
Globalization
The Process of Globalization
Globalization, a worldwide phenomenon, integrates countries, economies, cultures, and customs. Driven by capitalism, media, the internet, and technology, it has fostered global interdependence.
Effects and Criticisms of Globalization
Economic globalization promotes free trade, decentralized financial markets, and weakened state sovereignty. Politically, liberal democracy has become more prevalent. Culturally, globalization encourages cosmopolitanism. However, critics, particularly anti-globalists, point to the unequal distribution of wealth and the increasing gap between rich and poor nations. Despite some growth, poor countries continue to face famine, disease, and economic hardship, while multinational corporations and wealthy nations benefit disproportionately.