I think Beskar and Banquo pretty much summed up why I am a big fan of futher integration. Future potential and a decent voice in world events. I couldn't tell you if it has a positive impact or not at this present moment... I would like to think so but its complex if your trying to take everything into account... (somewhat similar to what gaelic cowboy said)

Our choices on the world stage seem to be follow what America does or not the other major powers are a little too different so we don't seem to follow thier lead as much whereas i think in the EU at least we will have a partial say in formulating policys...