Status of construction in the European Union

Abstract

The creation of the European Union (EU) has been a work in progress for several decades. In fact, it is still in the process of being refined both politically and financially. Therefore, the status of construction in the EU is volatile, much like the state of the EU itself. This report merely attempts to take a "snapshot" of the status of construction at this particular point in time. Some speculations are made as to the probability of the success of the industry in the near future. However, long term predictions are not made. The construction industry within the European theatre was greatly impacted by the creation of the European Union. This paper will address the need for standardization of: (1) contract form, (2) construction products (materials); and (3) technical specifications within the EU. It will also detail some of the measures that are being developed to implement these requirements. The integration of the EU workforce is described in an effort to define the impact of the single market economy on the construction industry. A brief history of the European Union is provided to give background on the political and economic climate of the region.