Europe’s 28th Regime: A Tool to Unite Europe?

The European Union was built on grand ambitions—peace, prosperity, and unity. Yet beneath the surface of its single market lies a maze of 27 national systems: 27 tax codes, 27 sets of consumer laws, and 27 bureaucracies. Businesses hoping to sell across borders must navigate this tangled web at great cost. To fix this, EU leaders are thinking about a new idea called the “28th regime” (Euractiv, October 16, 2025). It is a set of optional rules that businesses could choose to follow instead of each country’s laws. If it works, a company could hire workers in different countries using one contract or sell eco-friendly products without having to meet 27 different standards. 

Some think this is smart and helpful, while others worry that it could be unfair. Big companies might use the new system to avoid rules that protect workers. That could create a “two-speed Europe” where some people benefit while others are left behind. There is also a question of who would enforce these new rules. Past EU regulations like GDPR, which protects online privacy, have not always been followed the same way in every country.

The Bible gives us a bigger picture. In Daniel 2, a statue is seen in a vision, having feet of iron and clay that symbolize an end-time kingdom that is strong but divided—just as you see in a mixture of iron and clay. The EU seems similar—trying to unite but remaining very divided. Revelation 17 points to the rise of ten “kings” or leaders who will give their power to one ruler. Could the EU be moving toward that event? The lesson is clear: Man-made plans for unity do not last without God. As Europe builds new systems, we should stay alert and remember Jesus’ words: “Be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect” (Matthew 24:44).

You can find out more about what the future holds for Europe and the rest of the world by listening to or reading our informative study guide Prophecy Fulfilled: God’s Hand in World Affairs.