Originally Posted by
Chugalug2
A rose by any other name. Unions try to assume the form of being a nation ASAP. In hardening their identity they simultaneously reduce the identity of their component states. Even if they don't formally declare themselves as Unions, if their "nation" is composed of previously separate cultures with their own language and traditions then they are in effect a Union. Go ask the Basques and Catalonians.
Yes, nations can have civil wars of course, but Unions are more likely to because of the sharp divisions within the population. Again these tensions are more likely to erupt in the early years but they are there forever. A mature Union should recognise that and have some form of democratic process to provide for secession if the majority so wish.
Like the European Union, you mean? The only reason we haven't left is because of the hardliners in the ERG.