A brief insight into the new Europe

From the 1st of this month, the European Union (EU) will be undergoing the most far-reaching enlargement since its birth, with the accession of 10 new member states, eight of whom languished for decades behind the Iron Curtain. This enlargement marks a remarkable stage in Europe's transformation. Enlargement will bring benefits to existing and new members alike. Businesses will benefit from access to the largest single market in the world. Consumers will enjoy access to a wider range of goods and services, all meeting EU health and safety standards – and at lower prices. Enlargement will also open up new opportunities to travel, live and work in the new member states. Surprisingly, however, not many people (particularly in the UK) know much about the Union; even how many countries it comprises and who they are. In this article, Steve Lavender sheds some light on the shape of the new Europe.