Spain’s Role in the European Union and the Globalized World
Spain in the European Union
1. The Formation of the European Union
Spain’s integration into the European Union has been a pivotal development in the country’s history. Following World War II, Western European nations sought closer ties to prevent future conflicts. This led to the creation of BENELUX (a customs union between Belgium, Netherlands, and Luxembourg) in 1948.
In 1957, the Treaty of Rome established the European Common Market, aiming to reduce protectionist tariffs among member countries (Germany, France, Italy, Belgium, Netherlands, and Luxembourg). The Union Treaty of 1967 created the European Economic Community (EEC). The EEC expanded in 1973 with the addition of the United Kingdom, Ireland, and Denmark, followed by Greece in 1982. Spain and Portugal joined in 1986.
While Spain had considered joining the European Communities in 1962, it was unfeasible under Franco’s regime. A preferential trade agreement was signed in 1970. Spain’s transition to democracy paved the way for integration. In 1977, Spain joined the Council of Europe and, thanks to Minister Marcelino Oreja, applied to join the European Communities. Despite challenging negotiations, Spain officially joined in 1986.
The Single European Act of 1987 renamed the entity the European Community. The Maastricht Treaty of 1992 established the European Union, removing barriers to goods and people. Sweden, Finland, and Austria joined in 1996. The euro was adopted as a common currency in 2002. Further expansions included Poland, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Hungary, Slovenia, Lithuania, Latvia, Estonia, Cyprus, and Malta in 2004, and Romania and Bulgaria in 2006, bringing the total membership to 27.
2. Spain’s Participation in EU Institutions
The primary EU institutions include:
- Council of the European Union: The main decision-making body, composed of one minister from each member state. Its presidency rotates every six months.
- European Parliament: The legislative body with 785 elected deputies (54 from Spain), grouped by political affiliation, meeting in Strasbourg and Brussels.
- European Commission: Composed of one commissioner per member state, a president elected by member states, responsible for legislation, budget, and international representation.
3. Spain’s Economic Weight in the EU
Spain boasts the 5th largest GDP among EU members. Key economic sectors include intensive agriculture, industrial products, and services like tourism. Spanish companies play a significant international role. Challenges include underinvestment in education and research compared to other members, and high unemployment.
Spain in a Globalized World
1. Concept of Globalization and Historical Evolution
Globalization, a defining characteristic of the modern world, unifies societies and territories. Beginning with the 13th-century industrial revolution, it divided the world between advanced European nations and raw material producers. Factors like 19th-century colonialism, steam-powered shipping and railways intensified international trade.
The 1973 oil crisis ushered in the third industrial revolution, characterized by nuclear energy, robotics, and computing. Industrial areas began to feel constrained.
2. Dimensions of Globalization
Globalization has several dimensions:
- Economic: The capitalist model dominates globally, with open borders and trade flows.
- Geopolitical: Institutions are increasingly influenced by decisions of bodies like the G-8, limiting state autonomy.
- Information: Media (especially the internet) facilitates information globalization.
- Cultural: Westernization is leading to cultural standardization.
- Population Movements: Increased migration to developed countries.
- Environmental Problems: Requiring collective solutions.
Globalization also has downsides, exacerbating inequality. Anti-globalization movements condemn injustices favoring richer nations, coordinating efforts through platforms like the World Social Forum (established in 2001 in Porto Alegre).