The “undemocratic” origins of the euro.

This week, the EU Observer printed an interesting story on the beginnings of the euro (EU Observer, April 8, 2013). Thanks to a 2002 interview with former German Chancellor Helmut Kohl, first published in a recently completed doctoral dissertation, we now have some informative insights from one whose involvement was critical to the creation of the euro.  In the interview, Herr Kohl explained that the euro was inaugurated in an effort to prevent future war in Europe: “Nations with a common currency never went to war against each other.”

He further stated, “I knew that I could never have won a referendum here in Germany. We would have lost any plebiscite about the introduction of the euro. That is very clear. I would have lost it” (ibid.).  So, interestingly, in order to bring the euro idea to life, Herr Kohl stated that he had to act “like a dictator” (ibid.).  

The euro’s undemocratic beginnings have continued with many autocratic decisions made by the EU elite. Sadly, what began as an idea to prevent war in Europe has led to a war of words and ideas that promises to divide the continent once more.

Ultimately, there will arise in Europe a group of “ten kingdoms” that will unite politically, economically, and militarily (see Revelation 17). It will be interesting to watch just how this happens!