The Projected European Union and the Question of German Unity

Abstract

The political union of Europe and the question of German unity are interrelated as political realities and visions. The political union is still something of the future— despite the integration which has been developed in so many fields. The profile of the projected union is undetermined in a number of essential elements, such as membership, outside relationships, and the like. The union is, however, a matter of serious political concern for many governments, political parties, and the public since World War II. The functional integration of the Six has been brought about without the preponderance of any one nation over the others. Although national entity has become something less of a problem, the question of German unity is an essential problem in terms of policy, peace, and security and of the future of Europe. The question has national, international and distinctively European implications. The future union is not limited to any particular area in Europe. Except for the Soviet Union, there are no potential nonmembers by definition. The division of Germany is part of the division of Europe and, in this sense, is a concern of all. A Europe which would limit itself to preserving the liberties of the free people and would surrender hope for those who are not free would not be a Europe minus something nonessential; it would not be European at all, but, rather, an association of selfish purpose separating and dividing nations, not uniting them.