1. Economic benefits of being part of the European Union
Being part of the European Union (EU) offers numerous economic benefits that significantly impact member states and their citizens. One of the primary advantages is access to the European single market, which allows for the free movement of goods, services, capital, and people. This integration facilitates trade among member countries, creating a robust and competitive economic environment.
Businesses within the EU can operate more efficiently and expand their markets, benefiting from reduced barriers and increased opportunities. Moreover, consumers enjoy a wider variety of products and services at competitive prices, enhancing their purchasing power and overall quality of life.
In addition to the single market, EU membership provides access to various funding and investment opportunities through European funds. These funds support regional development, innovation, research, and infrastructure projects, driving economic growth and job creation.
Countries can leverage these resources to improve their economies, reduce disparities, and enhance competitiveness on a global scale. Another significant benefit is the economic stability provided by participation in the Eurozone.
Adopting the euro as a common currency reduces exchange rate risks, facilitates trade, and fosters economic integration. This stability attracts foreign investment and contributes to the overall resilience of member economies.
2. Mobility within the European Union
One of the most valued aspects of EU membership is the freedom of movement it grants to its citizens. This principle allows individuals to live, work, study, and travel freely across member states, significantly broadening personal and professional horizons.
Students benefit from the ability to attend universities in any EU country, often with the support of exchange programs like Erasmus+, which promote educational and cultural exchange. Professionals can seek employment opportunities throughout the EU, taking advantage of mutual recognition of qualifications and the ease of moving between countries without the need for visas.
This mobility fosters a more dynamic and interconnected labor market, enhancing career prospects and personal development. The ease of travel within the EU is another substantial benefit. Citizens can move freely across borders for tourism or business, experiencing diverse cultures and strengthening cross-border relationships.
This freedom not only enhances the quality of life but also supports economic growth by boosting tourism and facilitating business operations. The Schengen Agreement, which abolished border controls among most EU countries, further streamlines travel, making it more convenient and efficient for residents and visitors alike.
Take advantage of specialized assistance to secure your passport for a borderless future.
3. Social and cultural impacts
The European Union’s influence extends beyond economics and mobility, significantly impacting social and cultural aspects of life. Programs like Erasmus+ enable students and educators to experience different cultures and educational systems, fostering mutual understanding and collaboration.
These exchanges enrich participants’ lives, broaden their perspectives, and create lasting international friendships. The EU also promotes common social policies that improve public health, human rights, and social welfare. Member states work together to address challenges such as healthcare, gender equality, and social inclusion, ensuring a high standard of living for their citizens.
The promotion of cultural diversity and protection of historical heritage are also core values of the EU. Initiatives like the European Heritage Label and Creative Europe support the preservation of cultural sites, traditions, and arts, celebrating the rich tapestry of European identity.
These efforts strengthen the cultural fabric of Europe, ensuring that its diverse history and heritage are cherished and passed down to future generations. By fostering a sense of shared identity and cultural pride, the EU helps create a more cohesive and resilient society.
4. Collective security in the EU
The European Union Agency for Law Enforcement Cooperation (Europol) plays a crucial role in security, counter-terrorism efforts, and combating organized crime. Europol is the EU law enforcement agency and its goal is to make the European Union safer.
In addition to internal security, the EU participates in civilian and military missions under the Common Security and Defence Policy (CSDP). These missions aim to promote peace, stability, and security in various regions, often focusing on conflict prevention, crisis management, and post-conflict reconstruction.
By contributing to international peacekeeping efforts, the EU enhances its global standing and demonstrates its commitment to collective security and humanitarian values.
5. Global political influence as part of the EU
Membership in the European Union amplifies a country’s political influence on the global stage. By representing a significant bloc of nations with shared interests, the EU has greater leverage in international negotiations and decision-making processes.
This collective representation ensures that the voices of member states are heard and that their interests are protected in global forums. The EU’s unified stance on issues such as trade, climate change, and human rights enhances its ability to shape international policies and agreements.
The EU’s expanded capacity to influence environmental, commercial, and diplomatic issues is particularly noteworthy. As a leading advocate for sustainable development and environmental protection, the EU plays a pivotal role in global efforts to combat climate change.
Its stringent environmental regulations and ambitious targets set a benchmark for other countries to follow. In trade negotiations, the EU’s collective bargaining power secures favorable terms and protects the economic interests of its members. Diplomatically, the EU promotes peace, stability, and human rights, leveraging its influence to address global challenges and foster international cooperation.
Take advantage of specialized assistance to secure your passport for a borderless future.
Obtaining Italian citizenship through judicial channels
Obtaining Italian citizenship can open the door to the numerous benefits of EU membership. However, on March 28, 2025, Italy enacted Decree-Law No. 36/2025, introducing major restrictions on jus sanguinis citizenship. The approval of Law No. 74 of May 23, 2025, solidified the new limitations proposed by Decree–Law No. 36/2025. Historically, Italian citizenship recognition had no generational limits, allowing great-grandchildren and further descendants to apply.
The new law restricts eligibility to individuals whose Italian parent(s) or grandparent(s) were born in Italy. If an individual’s parents—but not grandparents—resided in Italy for at least two consecutive years, they may still qualify for citizenship under the eligibility criteria. Additionally, the Italian ancestor must have held Italian citizenship exclusively at the time of their death. This means that if your Italian parent or grandparent naturalized as a citizen of another country, you would no longer be eligible for Italian citizenship.
This law is controversial, as it retroactively regulates past nationality claims, contradicting established legal principles that laws should only govern future events. In fact, the Italian Constitutional Court has ruled in past cases that retroactive restrictions must be proportionate and reasonable.
This suggests that, in the near future, applicants may increasingly turn to the judicial route to challenge unconstitutional changes in citizenship law. For further updates and insights, follow our channels to stay informed.
Understanding the advantages of EU membership underscores the value of obtaining Italian citizenship. From economic benefits and mobility to social, cultural, and security impacts, being part of the EU enriches individuals’ lives and enhances their opportunities.
By considering specialized services and legal avenues, individuals can navigate the complexities of the citizenship process and fully embrace their European heritage. Acquiring Italian citizenship provides a gateway to the diverse and dynamic experiences that come with being part of the European Union.
