Describe the functioning of the European Union
The European Union (EU), is an international organization that comprises of a collection of 27 European countries and governing common economic, social, and security policies. The EU’s members are Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, the Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, and Sweden. The United Kingdom, which had been a founding member of the EU, left the organization in 2020.

The EU was created by the Maastricht Treaty, which entered into force on November 1, 1993. The treaty was designed to enhance European political and economic integration by creating a single currency (the euro), a unified foreign and security policy, and common citizenship rights and by advancing cooperation in the areas of immigration, asylum, and judicial affairs. The EU was awarded the Nobel Prize for Peace in 2012, in recognition of the organization’s efforts to promote peace and democracy in Europe.

For more information, considering searching the web, or visiting: https://www.britannica.com/summary/European-Union
rate the EU based on geopolitical influence and future prospects compared to other such alliances/unions in history.
The EU is a political and economic union of 27 European countries, and is one of the most powerful alliances in the world in terms of geopolitical influence. The EU's economic power, military capabilities, and diplomatic influence make it a formidable player on the world stage. The EU has a strong track record of promoting international trade, cooperation, and human rights, and has played a major role in addressing global challenges such as climate change, terrorism, and economic inequality.

Compared to other alliances and unions in history, the EU is unique in its size and scope, encompassing nearly half a billion people and 27 countries. While some earlier alliances and empires, such as the Roman Empire, the Mongol Empire, and the British Empire, were also large and influential in their time, the EU is distinguished by its focus on democratic values, human rights, and peaceful cooperation among its member states.

In terms of future prospects, the EU faces several challenges, including rising nationalist and anti-immigrant sentiments, internal political divisions, and economic pressures from globalization and technological change. However, the EU has shown resilience and adaptability in the face of past challenges, and has a strong potential for continued growth and influence in the years to come.