Immigration and European Identity

Among the most difficult challenges facing the European Union (EU) is the development of a European identity. The countries and regional groups of Europe have long histories and traditions, and have had numerous wars against one another over the centuries. European identity must overcome traditional rivalries. In addition, European identity must encompass the tens of millions of immigrants who have arrived in Europe since the Second World War, and who tend to be dissimilar from the host society population in terms of religion, language, culture, and other important characteristics. But Europe has an aging and declining population and needs immigrant labor. Despite challenges, as reflected by the Eurobarometer and other indicators, European identity is becoming more salient, especially among the young.