Regional Economic Integration in Europe

Regional economic integration removes trade barriers in a region, allowing for the free flow of goods, services, and people. The European Union is a perfect example of this type of structure. Other parts of the world also have started to integrate their own economic systems. As you read this section, think about what opportunities neighboring countries can offer one another when trade barriers are removed. What did European trade look like before the EU? How has economic integration benefitted European nations, and what new challenges has it created?

GLOSSARY

Good

An object produced for market.

Justice

The ideal of fairness, impartiality, etc., especially with regard to the punishment of wrongdoing.

Mission

A set of tasks that fulfills a purpose or duty; an assignment set by an employer.

Services

That which is produced, then traded, bought or sold, then finally consumed and consists of an action or work.