Federal Europe
Federal Europe, also known as the United States of Europe (USE) or a European federation, is a theoretical scenario in which European integration progresses to the point of forming a singular sovereign superstate. This state would be organized as a federation, encompassing the member countries of the European Union. The concept has been explored by politicians, political scientists, geographers, historians, futurologists, and fiction writers.
Historical Background
The idea of a Federal Europe is deeply rooted in the history of European political thought. The notion of uniting European countries into a federal structure gained traction following the devastations of the World Wars and the desire for peace and stability. In 1929, Aristide Briand, then Prime Minister of France, proposed a federation of European nations during a speech at the League of Nations Assembly, emphasizing solidarity and the pursuit of economic prosperity and political cooperation.
Federalism in the European Union
Currently, the EU is not a federation or even a confederation in the traditional sense. However, most scholars of federalism consider the EU to be a federal system or a supranational union. This system features flexible membership and competence delegation, exemplified by mechanisms like the right to secession, Article 50, and events such as Brexit.
The EU has developed numerous federal characteristics, such as a single currency (the Euro), a single market, and institutional bodies like the European Commission and the European Parliament that transcend national governments' roles. These elements contribute to the ongoing debate about whether the EU should evolve into a more tightly integrated federation or maintain its current structure.
Proponents and Visionaries
Several figures have been influential in advancing the idea of a Federal Europe. Among them, Ulrike Guérot has advocated for a European Republic, which would equalize European regions beyond the member states. Others, like the political movement Volt Europa, endorse the formation of a federal Europe with aspirations such as a European army and joint European debt.
The vision for a Federal Europe typically centers around principles of liberalism, Christianity, and social responsibility. These ideas have influenced European leaders and institutions in their pursuit of deeper integration to ensure peace, security, and prosperity on the continent.