The article discusses how European integration has faced challenges since the 2008 financial crisis, leading to questions about the future of the European Union. Different perspectives on EU integration have been debated, including supranational/federalist, liberal/institutionalist, and ideational views. The weaknesses of economic and monetary union have raised doubts about the effectiveness of European institutions in promoting cooperation among European states. The need to re-evaluate European integration, examine relationships with external partners, and understand the direction of the Union has become crucial due to internal and external instabilities.