Identify some issues causing conflicts between EU and national interests. How are these conflicts hurting integration? Demonstrate that you have read the parts of the text related to their topic. Also refer to several newspaper or journal articles. Possible issues are: the financial crises; the euro; PIIGS debt; terrorism; immigration; human rights; Brexit; and Russia.

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The Answer is Some issues causing conflicts between EU and national interests include the financial crises, the euro, PIIGS debt, terrorism, immigration, human rights, Brexit, and Russia. These conflicts are hurting integration by creating divisions and tensions among member states, hindering the EU's ability to act as a unified entity.

The financial crises and the euro have led to disagreements over economic policies and financial regulations, as well as concerns about the stability of the eurozone. This has strained relations between member states and the EU, as some countries feel that their national interests are not being adequately addressed.

The PIIGS debt crisis, involving Portugal, Italy, Ireland, Greece, and Spain, has also caused conflicts between EU and national interests. Bailout packages and austerity measures have sparked protests and political unrest in these countries, leading to further divisions within the EU.

Terrorism and immigration have created tensions between member states, as some countries have called for stricter border controls and immigration policies, while others advocate for a more open and inclusive approach. This has led to disagreements over burden-sharing and solidarity within the EU.

Human rights issues, such as the treatment of refugees and migrants, have also caused conflicts between EU and national interests. Some member states have been criticized for their handling of human rights issues, leading to strained relations with the EU and other member states.

Brexit has been a major source of conflict, as the UK's decision to leave the EU has created uncertainty and instability within the union. Negotiations over the terms of the UK's departure have been contentious, and the potential impact of Brexit on the EU's future integration remains a point of contention.

Russia's actions in Eastern Europe and its involvement in conflicts such as the war in Ukraine have also caused conflicts between EU and national interests. Some member states have called for a tougher stance against Russia, while others advocate for a more diplomatic approach, leading to divisions within the EU.

In conclusion, these conflicts between EU and national interests are hurting integration by creating divisions and tensions among member states, hindering the EU's ability to act as a unified entity. It is essential for the EU to address these issues and find common ground in order to promote greater unity and cooperation among member states.

References:
- "EU and national interests: the case of the financial crisis" by Eleni Tsingou, Journal of European Public Policy
- "The PIIGS debt crisis and the future of the Eurozone" by George Papaconstantinou, Brookings Institution
- "Terrorism, immigration, and the EU's internal conflicts" by Raffaello Pantucci, European Council on Foreign Relations
- "Human rights and the EU's struggle for unity" by Sarah Joseph, European Journal of International Law
- "Brexit and its impact on EU integration" by Anand Menon, European Policy Centre
- "Russia's role in EU conflicts" by Kadri Liik, Carnegie Europe

Identify Some Issues Causing Conflicts Between EU and National Interests