Globalization
Europe is made up of many distinct cultures and languages within a relatively small area. It has wavered between trying to join forces for the common benefit and trying to farther fragment based on regional unifying characteristics.
balkanization
European Union (EU)
Disparities of economic might Northern countries tend to be far better off than the southern countries. -They are more economically productive -The have better balance sheets (less debt) -They have fewer problems with corruption & tax evasion