Abstract

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to explore the challenges faced by European leaders in the
twenty-first century economy.
Design/methodology/approach – The paper is an exploratory and expository review of the
relationship and contributions made by politicians of individual countries.
Findings – The paper suggests that opposition parties are offering little in the way of alternative
policies in most European Union (EU) countries. For most countries that endorse the globalisation
process, this is unlikely to change and in the EU.
Originality/value – This paper allows researchers and practitioners to gain an understanding of
European integration and theories of globalisation to build a contextual picture of the challenges faced
by European leaders.