The European Union

The difficult balance between a common identity based on founding values and respect for national identities

Abstract

The foundational values of the European Union, such as peace, solidarity, unity, freedom, and socio-economic progress, have been essential in ensuring cohesion and stability across Europe. These principles, rooted in the humanist and Christian traditions, were enshrined in key texts such as the Schuman Declaration and the founding treaties of the ECSC, EEC, and EURATOM. Over time, these values have been expanded to include democracy, human rights, and respect for the rule of law, reflecting the transition from an economic union to one characterized by deeper political and social integration.

However, the implementation of these principles faces significant challenges. The cultural, political, and legal diversity among Member states has led to tensions in their interpretation, as illustrated by cases involving Hungary and Poland, or debates over the primacy of EU law versus national sovereignty, as raised by the German Constitutional Court. These tensions underscore the complexity of balancing supranational integration with respect for national identities, a principle explicitly protected in EU treaties.

The diversity of European nations, far from being an obstacle, constitutes a strength that enriches the collective project. Integration should not be understood as homogenization but rather as the construction of a shared space that celebrates differences and fosters mutual understanding.

The future of the European Union depends on its ability to maintain a balance between shared values and national identities, advancing under the motto "United in Diversity" and consolidating a European identity that is both inclusive and respectful of individual national distinctions.