The document discusses characteristics of Second World nations based on themes from Austin Kruisheer's book "The Second World". Second World nations have characteristics of both First and Third World countries and balance power between major powers. The European Union absorbs a country on average every year and has become a successful superstate. Russia's economy relies heavily on its largest energy company Gazprom which is owned by the wealthy elite. Brazil has developed from a Third World to Second World country and helped form the G20 coalition. Vietnam has maintained independence despite being invaded by China and is developing its economy with American and Asian support.