How the Old Continent is Gaining New Strength.
Two senior directors at the management consulting firm McKinsey & Co. apply their expertise to the European Union, providing an in-depth analysis of its current economic situation while arguing that the US model in not appropriate for the European market. As the European market expands as a single entity, it is facing economic challenges that can only be remedied by reform. Intended as a diagnosis of the status quo and as an agenda for change, Kluge and Hassbender argue that the US nation- state model is outdated--not the solution to Europe's economic woes. In order to stay competitive in the global market, the EU must complete the European single market, adopt smart regulation, set standards in key areas of future growth and transform the state system. Through continued harmonization of its educational systems, coping with its demographic problems and better engagement in globalization, Europe will gain the leading edge.