Western Europe


Western Europe is distinguished from Central and Eastern Europe by geography
and by differences of history and culture. However, these boundaries are
subject to considerable overlap and fluctuation, which makes differentiation
difficult. The concept of Western Europe is also associated with liberal
democracy; its countries are generally deemed to be well within the cultural
hegemony of the United States of America.

Before the Cold War, "Western Europe" was used to describe France, Ireland,
the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, Belgium and Luxemburg.

During the Cold War, when Western Europe designated the countries that are
part of the NATO treaty and under American influence, the term was often
used as a counterbalance to Eastern Europe that was under Soviet influence.
The borders between Western and Eastern countries were securely defended,
especially on the Eastern side. These borders were also called the Iron Curtain.

Until recently, Western Europe could safely be said to comprise the
countries of the European Union plus Iceland, Switzerland, Liechtenstein,
Andorra, Norway, San Marino, and Monaco. However, many countries that are
(or were) located in Eastern or Central Europe, such as Poland and the Czech
Republic, are now seeking inclusion into the European Union. It is likely
that the increased economic and cultural ties with Western European
countries will lead to a westward migration as inclusion occurs. This will
lead to yet another change of the definition of Western Europe in the future.