A country is born

Or in this case, reborn - Montenegro. Interestingly, part of the reason for seceding is that 'an independent Montenegro would have a stronger economy and be a better candidate for admission into the European Union.' All around the world new countries are forming and ethnic groups are asserting their individuality, while here in Europe we seem to be flying in the face of history, in our movement towards ever greater union with our neighbours. No doubt Montenegro's desire to join Europe is more about economic considerations than a desire for ever-closer political union. Other examples of groups seeking independence and new nations forming here, here, and here, and of course here; the tide of history does not seem to favour the EU!