It’s time for some dreaming: the best of Europe, from its 27 member states

If the European Union were one country, which national best practices would we need to succeed? Let’s look at the EU’s 27 countries and determine which national highlights can be part of a combined European soul. What would Europe look like if we could all benefit from the added value? Which tasks could be offered to the Estonians, which would need to be done by the Portuguese? Which other national heritage could be translated into a pan-European characteristic?

Creating a story encompassing the best practices from each of the European Union’s 27 member states is a complex but fascinating task. Each EU country has unique strengths and characteristics that could contribute to a hypothetical unified European nation. Let’s explore these attributes country by country, highlighting their potential contributions:

1. Austria: Known for its environmental policies and sustainable practices, Austria could contribute significantly to environmental conservation and green living.
2. Belgium: As the de facto capital of the EU, Brussels is a hub for international diplomacy and multilingualism. Belgium’s multilingual administration and diplomacy expertise could foster a more inclusive and cohesive European identity.
3. Bulgaria: With a strong IT sector, Bulgaria could contribute to developing affordable and innovative technology solutions across Europe.
4. Croatia: Croatia’s thriving tourism industry, bolstered by its stunning coastline and cultural heritage, could guide the development of sustainable tourism practices.
5. Cyprus: As a leader in maritime and shipping industries, Cyprus could enhance Europe’s maritime commerce and logistics.
6. Czech Republic: Known for its manufacturing and automotive industry, the Czech Republic could drive advancements in European manufacturing and engineering.
7. Denmark: Denmark’s renewable energy and wind power leadership could help propel Europe towards a greener, more sustainable energy future.
8. Estonia: Estonia’s digital governance and e-services could be pivotal in building a digital European society and promoting efficiency and transparency.
9. Finland: With its high-quality education system, Finland could contribute to educational reform and innovation throughout Europe.
10. France: France’s influence in culture, cuisine, and fashion, along with its strong agricultural sector, could enrich the European cultural and culinary landscape.
11. Germany: As Europe’s largest economy, Germany’s economic policies and industrial strength, particularly in the engineering and automotive sectors, could be key in driving economic growth.
12. Greece: Greece’s rich historical heritage and archaeological advancements could significantly preserve European history and culture.
13. Hungary: Known for its agricultural productivity, particularly in wine and paprika production, Hungary could contribute to Europe’s food diversity and agricultural innovation.
14. Ireland: Ireland’s robust technology sector, particularly in software development, could be central to Europe’s digital economy.
15. Italy: Italy’s contributions could be in design, fashion, and culinary arts, enhancing Europe’s cultural richness and lifestyle quality.
16. Latvia: Latvia’s forestry and wood-processing industries could contribute to sustainable resource management and eco-friendly construction practices.
17. Lithuania: Lithuania has a rapidly growing fintech sector that could enhance financial innovation and services across Europe.
18. Luxembourg: As a global leader in finance and investment banking, Luxembourg could play a key role in managing Europe’s financial services and economic stability.
19. Malta: With its strategic location in the Mediterranean, Malta could contribute to maritime security and migrant crisis management.
20. Netherlands: The Netherlands’ water management and flood control expertise would be crucial in addressing Europe’s environmental and climate challenges.
21. Poland: Poland’s agricultural sector, especially grain production, could be central to ensuring European food security.
22. Portugal: Portugal’s advancements in renewable energy, particularly in solar and wind power, could contribute to Europe’s energy independence and sustainability.
23. Romania: Romania’s technology and IT sector are rapidly growing, offering potential contributions to Europe’s digital infrastructure.
24. Slovakia: Slovakia’s automotive industry, one of the largest per capita in the world, could bolster Europe’s manufacturing capabilities.
25. Slovenia: Known for its sustainable practices and green initiatives, Slovenia could guide Europe in sustainable development and environmental protection.
26. Spain: Spain’s geographic location and climate make it ideal for solar energy production, contributing to Europe’s renewable energy goals.
27. Sweden: Sweden’s progressive social policies and commitment to equality and innovation could guide European social policy.

Diverse, innovative, and sustainable

If all these national strengths were amalgamated into a single European entity, the result would be a highly diverse, innovative, and sustainable society. This unified Europe would combine the best in technology, culture, environmental sustainability, economic strength, and social policy. However, it would also require a balance of local and central governance, ensuring that healthcare and other key services are tailored to the unique needs of each region while maintaining a cohesive and united vision for Europe as a whole.

Ok, enough dreaming… if only because all these countries have much more to offer than what a single sentence can bring. But the ‘what if’ remains. What would happen if it all would fall Europe’s way? Don’t hesitate to send us your thoughts: [email protected].