The integration of the European Union was intended to promote the functioning of the economic sectors within the individual countries of Europe. The European Union (EU) was specifically designed to promote positive economic conditions in all countries through reducing barriers on trade and encouraging a freely-moving system of commerce (e.g.: the Euro). Criticisms have been leveled, however, against the overall effectiveness of this process in a system comprised of highly diversified economies. Spain, for example, is a county which is among the more affluent members of the EU. However, despite its prominent status, Spain still struggles economically, and its inclusion into the EU has been perceived as both a boon to the country and undermining its overall trend towards liberalized capitalism. This paper explores these arguments and identifies the likely outcome of Spains participation in the EU.