The European Union (EU) is a supranational union of 27 European countries based on common political, economic and legal interests. To become a member of the EU, a European state must not only declare the principles of freedom, democracy and respect for human rights, but also observe them in practice. In addition, the level of development of the applicant's economy must correspond to the average indicators of the EU.
The first precondition for the creation of the European Union was the unification in 1951 of France, Germany, Belgium, the Netherlands, Italy and Luxembourg into the European Union of Coal and Steel. In 1957, the countries signed an agreement to create the European Economic Community (EEC). This association in 1992, after the signing of the Maastricht Treaty, became known as the European Community.
The EU gradually expanded. Other European countries joined it. At the same time, the powers of the EU institutions were expanded. The member states voluntarily delegated part of their sovereignty to the elected authorities of the Union.
Three institutions are mainly involved in the adoption of laws and regulations:
- European Commission;
- European Parliament;
- Council of the European Union.
The Court of Justice of the European Union monitors compliance with the implementation of European legislation. The Audit Chamber examines the financial activities of the Union.
The European Commission is the highest executive body of the EU. She puts forward bills and monitors the implementation of laws by members of the union. The European Commission consists of 27 commissioners - one from each member state of the EU.
The Council of the European Union is staffed by the sectoral ministers of the EU member states. Its composition depends on the issues discussed. For example, if the problem of environmental protection is being solved, then government ministers who are responsible for this issue in their home countries participate in the meetings.
Direct elections to the European Parliament are held every five years by citizens of EU countries. The parliamentarians are united in seven factions. Parliament approves laws, but has no right to put forward bills. The European Parliament has less powers than the Council of Europe.
Thanks to the coordinated economic and legal policies of the EU member states, a common market has been created that guarantees the freedom of movement of capital, goods and services. 22 countries have signed an agreement in Schengen on the abolition of passport control, which guarantees freedom of movement for citizens of these countries within the Schengen area. A single EU currency, the euro, has been created. The eurozone includes 17 member states of the Union.
The European Union is a subject of international law and therefore can take part in international relations and conclude treaties. Accordingly, he has diplomatic missions in many countries and a representation at the UN.
Now the EU includes 27 countries: Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Great Britain, Hungary, Germany, Greece, Denmark, Ireland, Spain, Italy, Cyprus, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Finland, France, Czech Republic, Sweden and Estonia.
Croatia and Turkey are candidates for membership in the Union.
Ludwig van Beethoven's “Ode to Joy” became the anthem of the European Union.