Abstract:

The process of monetary integration in Europe is closely related to the process of economic integration. On the one hand, the introduction of the euro crowned the long process of European economic integration. On the other hand, the need to tighten monetary cooperation and the desire to create a common European currency resulted directly from the progressing economic integration. The gradual increase in the intensity of trade and international economic cooperation over the years meant that the existing diversity of national currencies became an increasing burden for Europe. The aim of the article is to present the issues of monetary integration in the European Union. An important aspect of the presented research results is the presentation of the real convergence criteria as well as the costs and benefits of adopting the common European currency.