The European Union (EU) represents the culmination of an integration process that began in 1951 with the establishment of the European Coal and Steel Community. In the wake of World War II, European nations converged through economic and political cooperation, driven by the ambition to foster prosperity and secure a lasting peace. This framework led to the founding of the European Economic Community and the European Atomic Energy Community in 1957, evolving over time into the current Union of 27 Member States.
The present membership of the EU includes France, Germany, Italy, Belgium, the Netherlands, Luxembourg, Ireland, Denmark, Greece, Spain, Portugal, Austria, Finland, Sweden, the Czech Republic, Hungary, Poland, Slovenia, Slovakia, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, the Republic of Cyprus, Malta, Bulgaria, and Romania (noting that the United Kingdom formally withdrew in 2020).
The European Union aims to strengthen economic, political, social, and cultural solidarity among its Member States. At its core, the Union is anchored in the values of human dignity, freedom, democracy, equality, the rule of law, and respect for human rights. These principles form the bedrock of the EU and shape the common policies shared by its members.
The EU’s strategic objectives encompass a broad spectrum, including acting as a robust and effective global actor, championing human rights and the rule of law, combating climate change, ensuring gender equality, and promoting social and territorial cohesion. Furthermore, ensuring energy security, managing irregular migration, stimulating economic development, fostering employment, and enhancing living standards remain pivotal priorities.
As it advances its position as a global leader, the European Union has emerged as a formidable force in the global economy by achieving deep economic integration through the Single Market, the common currency, and the principle of free movement.
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