THE EUROPEAN UNION: THE BUILDING OF A NATION

Abstract

The European Union is an organization in a constant evolution with periods of stagnation. It has recently achieved high levels of integration that logically will be followed with a greater political integration. The Union will need a higher identification of the citizens in terms of participation in the democratic process and in terms of loyalty to the still to build the political structure. This research focuses on the actions undertaken in order to create a new level of identity, a European nation, by the actors involved in the European building process. It identifies the actions in two different kinds, the direct actions focus on this achievement and the indirect actions increasing the feeling of cultural communality in Europe. The direct actions follow the pattern already created by the European states creating their own nations, as establishing common symbols, convergence in the educational field, a common currency or a free movement area. The indirect actions normally do not have the involvement of the EU institutions, but also influence the process, as a sport, especially a football, Eurovision or the Council of Europe. The research proves an active policy integrating the Europeans but also points out problems and solutions for the success fulfillment of the process.