That gave rise to the start of the internal process of persuasion to move forward with regional integration. The early arguments revolved around the economy; thus, the first agreements were established to strengthen the steel and coal industry, creating the European Coal and Steel Community, cognisant of the fact that this would be an initial step in working toward the consolidation of a more far-reaching agreement that would have greater political strength. This first step was taken by the founding countries, namely France , Germany , Belgium Luxembourg, Italy and the Netherlands .

However, along the way there were steps forward and step back, since the European Community of Defence and subsequently the European Political Community could not withstand the reluctance of some. Nevertheless, even though there were obstacles, there were never regressions in this project since the idea was growing among the European countries to create a common market that would expand the possibilities of each country, with the free circulation of goods and factors of production, understood as companies, workers and capital. There were also expectations to establish a political structure above the state-nation that responded to those common problems that could not be resolved by each state individually.

The integration project moved ahead with increased speed, after which the European Economic Community was created through an agreement signed in 1957. That agreement provided for: the suppression of customs; a common external customs tariff; a common transport and agriculture policy; the creation of a European Social Fund; the European Investment Bank and the pursuit of closer ties among the members. Initially, the agreement was only signed by the same six founding countries, after which Greater Britain, Denmark , Ireland , Portugal , Greece and Spain were incorporated.

Together, the first twelve began the work of the European Councils, where discussions were held on the differences and details regarding what would be achieved through the Maastricht Agreement, when the European Union Treaty was signed, which launched a process of creating “an ever closer union among the peoples of Europe”.

From 1993, when that treaty entered into force, the European Union became the first model of global government.

We could say that Europe is keeping up with the times, since globalisation requires a world order that goes beyond the specific interests of nations and which would better respond to the progressive international interdependence that we are experiencing.

Fifty years of community experience make it clear that this is a better approach for the advancement of the peoples; therefore our region must believe that every year of progress for the European Union represents one of regression for us.

Dr. Rubén Silié Valdez is the Secretary General of the Association of Caribbean States. The opinions expressed are not necessarily the official views of the ACS. Comments and reactions can be sent to mail@acs-aec.org

May 17, 2007