The European Union has earned its place as an instrument for peace in Europe. Free trade has brought prosperity to its peoples, and the freedom to choose a place of residence guards against the resurgence of totalitarian regimes. The Acquis Communautaire protects all member states' citizens under the rule of law.
Anyone who doubts the existence of these benefits need only look to Kiev's "Euromaidan," where hundreds of thousands of people have gathered for weeks to demonstrate their support for closer ties with Europe, rather than an alliance with Vladimir Putin's Russia.
The paradox is that the same enthusiasm and benefits do not apply when it comes to Europe's common currency.