The process of German unification was poorly managed because it happened so rapidly. Unification has not produced a unity of minds, and the former East and West Germany continue to have very different political preferences. Those who advocate for an early referendum on Irish unification can learn lessons from the German experience. Reunification and adoption of the euro would mean rapid price convergence North and South, with northern prices rising rapidly. Any move to unification in the near future could prove very serious for an unprepared Northern Ireland economy.

Source: The Irish Times November 03, 2025 21:34 UTC