Introduction

Abstract

The late 1980s and early 1990s will be remembered by history as a turning point; decisions were made which dramatically changed the face of European politics and economics. The fall of the Soviet empire, the re-unification of Germany and the signing of the Maastricht Treaty have all had an important impact on the way Europe is perceived and the way Europe perceives itself. An opportunity now exists for unparalleled integration and cooperation, stretching uninterrupted from the Atlantic to the Urals. The problem, of course, is how to achieve this.