Over the next couple of years, the European Union will face a difficult stage, being confronted with the eventual transition to a monetary union. In the beginning of 1997, it is less clear than ever, if and when the European Monetary Union will eventually be realized, which countries will join...

In the run-up to the Intergovernmental Conference of the Member States of the EU in 1996, criticism of the convergence criteria laid down in the Maastricht Treaty selection and the scope left for interpretation is becoming ever vociferous. Will the shortcomings be rectified if, as demanded by...