"Europe must prevent Greece from becoming a real catastrophe and ensure that the same fiscal 'remedy' is not applied to other weak economies" -- MEP , Franziska Brantner. - The Greek economy has suffered a major collapse following the recent global recession. The European Union has expressed concerns about the negative impact of Greece's economic collapse on other member countries. Greece and the European Union are working to reduce the Greek deficit and contain the economic crisis in Greece. In order to be a member of the European Union, a candidate country must first meet the conditions for membership outlined in the Copenhagen criteria. There are geographical, democratic and economic criteria. Geographically, the candidate nation must be classified as a European nation, as evidenced by the rejection of Morocco. The candidate country must also have a secure and functioning democratic government that acts only in accordance with the law. This means that every citizen should be able to participate in the political system and that free elections with secret ballots must take place. The government must also respect human rights and put in place minority protection policies, meaning that a person's inalienable rights are protected by law and that minority groups can retain their culture and language without discrimination. Economically, a country must have a functioning market economy on which it can reasonably support its own needs and those of other member countries if necessary. The country's economy must be able to compete globally and cope with economic pressures. There are also separate guidelines for countries wishing to convert to the Euro. Finally, countries wishing to join must agree to abide by laws and regulations...... middle of paper ...... entertainment, sports, technology, United States and world - USATODAY.com. Gannet Co., May 3, 2010. Web. May 30, 2011. .Walker, Bruce. “The euro is likely to continue losing value.” The New American. The New American Magazine, July 7, 2010. Web. May 23, 2011. .Wallop, Harry. "Greece: Why has its economy fallen so hard? - Telegraph." Telegraph.co.uk - Telegraph Online, Daily Telegraph and Sunday Telegraph - Telegraph. Telegraph Media Group Limited, April 28, 2010. Web. May 30, 2011. “What conditions must countries meet to become members of the EU? EU requirements. Folketingets EU-Oplysning. Internet. May 20 2011. .