Will the European Union become the United States of Europe?

The distinction between the European Union and the United States of America is based on geographic realities. The United States has little power outside of its borders. Why? Because the United States represents one system, one culture and one language. The European Union reaches far beyond its borders. Its influence may not be recognized by most people at this point. This is partially because each country has its own leader. No one has yet emerged as the ultimate leader of this diverse group of people. Each nation continues to be sovereign, with its own power structure, military operation, government, customs, culture and tradition. However, parallel to each government, there is a shadow government located in the city of Brussels from where laws are being legislated and will ultimately be enforced.

Today, there are 15 voices from 15 individual nations, and 15 representatives from the 15 nations at the European government. Since 2004, there are 25 nations in the Union. In contrast, the United States is one. However, neither the United States nor the European Union can develop independently. Each depends upon the other. This becomes more and more pronounced each time a major industry merger is announced. Permission must be granted by the European Union, the United States and finally the World Trade Organization. A nation's total independence no longer exists.