The Foundations of a United Europe: 1979-1987

Overview

The period between 1979 and 1987 saw significant strides towards European integration, marked by the introduction of direct elections to the European Parliament in 1979, followed by the accession of Greece in 1981. Spain and Portugal joined soon after in 1986, bringing a new wave of democratic nations into the fold. Efforts intensified with plans for a common currency, though the UK remained skeptical. The ambition was to achieve a single market by 1992, where goods, people, capital, and services could flow freely across borders, laying the groundwork for deeper political union.

Context

The late 1970s and early 1980s were characterized by economic challenges and Cold War tensions. Europe was navigating through a period of industrial restructuring and economic recovery post-World War II and the oil crisis of the 1970s. The European Economic Community (EEC), established in the late 1950s, aimed to foster economic cooperation among member states. By the end of the 1970s, there was a growing consensus that deeper political integration could enhance stability and prosperity across Europe.

Timeline

• 1979: First direct elections held for European Parliament.
• 1981: Greece joins the EEC as its tenth member state.
• 1983: The Delors Commission, led by Jacques Delors, is established to promote economic and monetary union.
• 1984: France and Germany sign a treaty on cooperation in foreign policy.
• 1985: Schengen Agreement signed among five states to establish free movement of people across borders.
• 1986: Spain and Portugal join the EEC, expanding membership further south.
• 1987: Single European Act signed, aiming for a single market by 1992; plans laid for common currency.
• 1988: Intergovernmental Conference (IGC) begins to discuss future EU governance.

Key Terms and Concepts

European Economic Community (EEC): A precursor to the European Union, established in 1957 by the Treaty of Rome. It aimed at economic integration among member states through a common market.

Single Market: An area where goods, services, people, and capital can move freely without hindrance, aiming to enhance economic efficiency and growth within the EU.

Schengen Agreement: A treaty signed in 1985 by five European countries (Belgium, France, Germany, Luxembourg, and the Netherlands) to abolish border controls between member states. It was named after the city of Schengen where it was signed.

Delors Commission: The European Commission headed by Jacques Delors from 1985 to 1994, which focused on economic and monetary union in Europe.

Intergovernmental Conference (IGC): A meeting between heads of state or government of EU member states to negotiate treaties and amendments to existing ones. It plays a crucial role in shaping the future direction of the European Union.

Key Figures and Groups

• Jacques Delors: French politician who served as President of the European Commission from 1985 to 1994, instrumental in promoting economic integration within Europe.
• European Parliament: Initially an advisory body, it became a directly elected institution with greater legislative power after the Single European Act of 1986.
• The Delors Commission: The European Commission during Jacques Delors’ tenure, which spearheaded initiatives towards deeper European integration.

Mechanisms and Processes

-> Economic challenges -> Desire for cooperation -> Establishment of EEC -> Expansion through new member states (Greece, Spain, Portugal) -> Direct elections to Parliament -> Single European Act -> Plans for single market and common currency -> Political union discussions

Economic Challenges led to Desire for Cooperation, leading to the establishment of the EEC. As Europe recovered from post-war economic difficulties, new member states joined (Greece in 1981, Spain and Portugal in 1986), marking significant political changes. Direct elections to the European Parliament in 1979 increased democratic representation. The Single European Act of 1987 aimed for a Single Market by 1992, where goods, services, people, and capital would move freely. Plans were also made for a common currency, though not all member states agreed (notably the UK). Discussions on political union began, reflecting an evolving understanding of shared governance.

Deep Background

The process towards European integration was rooted in the aftermath of World War II, where the devastation prompted efforts to foster peace and cooperation among former adversaries. The Treaty of Rome in 1957 established the EEC, focusing initially on economic aspects like free trade and common agricultural policies. Over time, member states grew more interconnected economically but also recognized the need for political alignment to address mutual security concerns and enhance collective bargaining power globally.

By the late 1970s, with the oil crisis having exposed weaknesses in national economies, there was renewed interest in deeper integration. The accession of Greece, Spain, and Portugal brought a fresh demographic and cultural diversity into the European project. These developments underscored the evolving nature of European identity beyond economic ties to include political unity and shared values.

Explanation and Importance

The period from 1979 to 1987 saw significant steps towards greater integration in Europe, driven by economic imperatives and a growing sense of community among member states. The introduction of direct elections to the European Parliament enhanced democratic legitimacy at the EU level. The accession of Greece, Spain, and Portugal expanded the Union geographically and politically.

Plans for a Single Market reflected an ambition to create an integrated economy where trade barriers were minimized. This was accompanied by discussions on political union, though these faced resistance from some member states like the UK and France due to concerns over sovereignty and national interests. Despite such reservations, the groundwork laid during this period paved the way for further developments in European integration.

Comparative Insight

The process of integrating Europe through economic and political means can be compared with similar efforts seen in other regions, such as the formation of the African Union or ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations). While each region has its unique context, the underlying principles of fostering cooperation among states to address mutual challenges are broadly applicable. The specific mechanisms employed by European institutions—such as direct elections and common market policies—offer valuable insights into effective governance models.

Extended Analysis

Economic Integration: Efforts towards a single market aimed at removing barriers to trade and enhancing economic efficiency across member states.

• Political Union: Discussions on political union sought to create a more cohesive framework for decision-making, though this faced significant hurdles due to differing national interests.
• Democratic Legitimacy: Direct elections to the European Parliament enhanced democratic accountability within EU institutions.
• Geopolitical Impact: The expansion of the EEC into southern Europe reshaped regional dynamics and expanded the Union’s influence.

Quiz

Open Thinking Questions

• How did the economic challenges of the late 1970s influence efforts towards greater European integration?
• What were some of the main obstacles to achieving a common currency and political union during this period?
• In what ways might the expansion of the EEC into southern Europe impact its future development?

Conclusion

The years from 1979 to 1987 marked significant progress in European integration, with direct elections, new member states, plans for a single market, and discussions on political union. These developments laid crucial groundwork for further steps towards a more cohesive Europe.