Simon Hutagalung
The European Union (EU) has been a cornerstone of post-war stability and economic cooperation in Europe. However, as the Union has expanded and deepened its integration, it has also encountered significant resistance from within. Euroscepticism, or the growing disillusionment with the EU among its member states, has become a potent force across the continent. This scepticism manifests itself in the form of criticisms against EU policies, perceived erosion of national sovereignty, and dissatisfaction with the functioning of its institutions.
In this context, Euroscepticism presents a serious challenge to the future of the Union, threatening its unity and stability. To secure its future, the EU must address the concerns driving Euroscepticism while maintaining its commitment to integration, multilateralism, and democracy. This essay argues that through institutional reforms, improved economic policies, and a more balanced approach to national sovereignty, the EU can strengthen its resilience against the rising tide of discontent.
Euroscepticism, at its core, reflects a deep-seated dissatisfaction with the current state of European integration. It is not a monolithic ideology but rather a spectrum of opinions that range from mild criticism of specific EU policies to outright opposition to the Union itself. The most visible manifestation of Euroscepticism in recent years has been Brexit, where the United Kingdom voted to leave the EU, signalling a severe breakdown in trust between the EU and one of its key members. Yet this discontent is not confined to the UK. Across the continent, populist and nationalist movements have gained ground, from Hungary and Poland to Italy and France, challenging the authority of Brussels and calling for greater national control over economic, political, and migration policies.
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