Final answer:
The fall of Soviet communism led to Eastern Europe's shift towards democratic governance, open markets, and deeper integration with the EU; challenges like Brexit and the debt and refugee crises emerged, and independence movements grew among former Soviet republics.
Step-by-step explanation:
After the collapse of Soviet communism in 1991, the transition toward democratic governments, open market economies, private ownership, and European Union (EU) integration became significant in Eastern Europe. The EU established a common currency, known as the euro, which facilitated trade and economic stability within its member states. However, the notion of a homogenous culture or common language did not materialize, as the EU celebrates cultural and linguistic diversity among its member countries. The EU consistently works to balance economic cooperation with respect for national sovereignty.
Furthermore, the post-Cold War era saw a decline in the fear of nuclear war and an increase in political freedom within former Soviet bloc countries. Challenges such as the Brexit vote, Greece's national debt crisis, and the refugee crisis continued to test the EU's coherence. There has been heightened scrutiny over Germany's role in the EU due to its economic strength and historical context.
With the dissolution of the Soviet Union, many former Soviet republics sought independence, leading to the rise of the Commonwealth of Independent States. The shift from communism to capitalism has also brought about various domestic changes in these nations, including population dynamics, which is an issue of concern for Russia post-1991.