QUICK FACTS
Created Jan 0001
Status Verified Sarcastic
Type Existential Dread
Keywords
supranational, european single market, euro, schengen area, brexit

Europe Declaration

“This article is part of a series on the Politics of the European...”

Contents
  • 1. Overview
  • 2. Etymology
  • 3. Cultural Impact

This article is part of a series on the Politics of the European Union .

Member States (27)

The European Union, a unique economic and political union, currently comprises 27 member states, each contributing to its complex tapestry of governance and policy. These nations, bound by a shared commitment to peace, democracy, and prosperity, represent a significant portion of the European continent. The membership roster is as follows:

  • Austria
  • Belgium
  • Bulgaria
  • Croatia
  • Cyprus
  • Czech Republic
  • Denmark
  • Estonia
  • Finland
  • France
  • Germany
  • Greece
  • Hungary
  • Ireland (officially the Republic of Ireland)
  • Italy
  • Latvia
  • Lithuania
  • Luxembourg
  • Malta
  • Netherlands
  • Poland
  • Portugal
  • Romania
  • Slovakia
  • Slovenia
  • Spain
  • Sweden

Candidate Countries

Beyond its current membership, the EU maintains active relationships with several candidate countries, each pursuing accession through a rigorous process of reform and alignment with EU standards. These nations are at various stages of their journey towards potential membership:

  • Albania (Accession of Albania to the European Union)
  • Bosnia and Herzegovina (Accession of Bosnia and Herzegovina to the European Union)
  • Georgia (Accession of Georgia to the European Union)
  • Moldova (Accession of Moldova to the European Union)
  • Montenegro (Accession of Montenegro to the European Union)
  • North Macedonia (Accession of North Macedonia to the European Union)
  • Serbia (Accession of Serbia to the European Union)
  • Ukraine (Accession of Ukraine to the European Union)

Countries with Suspended Accession Negotiations

Certain countries, while having previously engaged in accession talks, are currently experiencing a suspension of their negotiations. This status often reflects complex geopolitical or internal reform challenges:

  • Turkey (Accession of Turkey to the European Union)

Applicant Countries

An applicant country is a state that has formally applied for membership in the European Union. This status signifies a clear intention to join, though the process may be at an earlier stage than for candidate countries:

  • Kosovo (Accession of Kosovo to the European Union)

States Not on the Agenda

A number of states maintain significant relationships with the EU through various agreements and partnerships, but they do not currently have accession to the EU on their political agenda. These relationships are often governed by specific bilateral or multilateral frameworks:

  • Armenia (Accession of Armenia to the European Union)
  • Azerbaijan (Azerbaijan–European Union relations)
  • Belarus (Belarus–European Union relations)
  • Iceland (Iceland–European Union relations)
  • Kazakhstan (Kazakhstan–European Union relations)
  • Norway (Norway–European Union relations)
  • Russia (Russia–European Union relations)
  • Switzerland (Switzerland–European Union relations)
  • United Kingdom (Potential re-accession of the United Kingdom to the European Union)

Microstates and the European Union

The unique status of several small European principalities and states necessitates specific arrangements for their engagement with the EU. These relationships are characterized by tailored agreements that acknowledge their distinct size and sovereignty:

  • Andorra (Andorra–European Union relations)
  • Liechtenstein (Liechtenstein–European Union relations)
  • Monaco (Monaco–European Union relations)
  • San Marino (San Marino–European Union relations)
  • Vatican City (Holy See–European Union relations)

Special Territories

Certain territories, often with unique constitutional or geographical circumstances, have specific relationships with the European Union, which are delineated under various protocols and agreements:

  • EU 3 (EU founding states) (EU three) - This refers to the initial six member states that signed the Treaty of Rome in 1957: Belgium, France, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, and West Germany.
  • Enlargement of the European Union (Enlargement of the European Union) - The process by which the EU has expanded its membership over time.
  • Withdrawal from the European Union (Withdrawal from the European Union) - The legal and political process by which a member state leaves the EU, notably exemplified by Brexit.

Treaties and Declarations

The foundation of the European Union is built upon a series of foundational treaties and declarations, each marking a significant milestone in the continent’s journey toward integration. These documents, born from the ashes of conflict and the aspiration for lasting peace, have sculpted the political, economic, and social landscape of Europe.

  • Schuman Declaration (Schuman Declaration) (1950): This pivotal declaration, delivered by French Foreign Minister Robert Schuman, proposed placing French and West German coal and steel production under a common High Authority, within an organization open to other European countries. It is widely regarded as the genesis of European integration.

  • Treaty of Paris (Treaty of Paris (1951)) (1951): This treaty formally established the European Coal and Steel Community (ECSC), the precursor to the modern EU. It was signed by the six founding member states: Belgium, France, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, and West Germany.

  • Europe Declaration (1951): Issued concurrently with the signing of the Treaty of Paris, this joint statement by the foreign ministers of the six founding nations articulated the vision of a united Europe as a political, economic, and social entity. It underscored the commitment to creating the first supranational institution and laid the groundwork for an “organized Europe” open to all nations committed to freedom and democracy. The declaration famously stated: “By the signature of this Treaty, the involved parties give proof of their determination to create the first supranational institution and that thus they are laying the true foundation of an organised Europe. This Europe remains open to all European countries that have freedom of choice. We profoundly hope that other countries will join us in our common endeavour.” This sentiment was intended to serve as a perpetual reminder to future generations of their historic duty to unite Europe. The signatories included Konrad Adenauer (West Germany), Joseph Bech (Luxembourg), Robert Schuman (France), Count Carlo Sforza (Italy), Dirk Stikker and Jan van den Brink (Netherlands), and Paul van Zeeland and Joseph Meurice (Belgium).

  • Spaak Report (Spaak Report) (1956): This report, named after Belgian Foreign Minister Paul-Henri Spaak, laid the groundwork for the Treaties of Rome, proposing the creation of a common market and an atomic energy community.

  • Treaty of Rome (Treaty of Rome) (1957): This foundational treaty established the European Economic Community (EEC) and the European Atomic Energy Community (Euratom), significantly expanding the scope of European cooperation beyond coal and steel.

  • Euratom Treaty (Euratom Treaty) (1957): Signed on the same day as the Treaty of Rome, this treaty established the European Atomic Energy Community, focusing on the peaceful use of nuclear energy.

  • Merger Treaty (Merger Treaty) (1965): This treaty merged the executives of the ECSC, EEC, and Euratom into a single institutional structure, streamlining the governance of the European Communities.

  • Solemn Declaration (Solemn Declaration on European Union) (1983): This declaration, adopted by the European Council, reaffirmed the commitment to European Union and outlined a vision for future integration.

  • Single European Act (Single European Act) (1986): This was the first major revision of the Treaty of Rome. It introduced significant changes aimed at completing the European Single Market by 1992 and expanded the powers of the European Parliament.

  • Maastricht Treaty (Maastricht Treaty) (1992): Formally known as the Treaty on European Union, this treaty established the European Union itself, introduced the concept of EU citizenship, and laid the groundwork for the Economic and Monetary Union of the European Union (EMU) and the eventual introduction of the euro .

  • Treaty of Amsterdam (Treaty of Amsterdam) (1997): This treaty amended and consolidated the previous treaties, strengthening the role of the European Parliament, introducing new policies related to justice and home affairs, and paving the way for further enlargement.

  • Treaty of Nice (Treaty of Nice) (2001): This treaty was primarily designed to reform the institutional structure of the EU to prepare for the accession of new member states from Central and Eastern Europe.

  • Berlin Declaration (Berlin Declaration (2007)): This declaration, adopted on the 50th anniversary of the Treaties of Rome, reaffirmed the fundamental values of the EU and outlined a renewed commitment to its future development.

  • Treaty of Lisbon (Treaty of Lisbon) (2007): This treaty aimed to make the EU more democratic, efficient, and transparent. It introduced the office of President of the European Council and High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, and strengthened the role of the European Parliament.

  • Article 7 (Article 7 of the Treaty on European Union): This article of the Treaty on European Union allows the Council to determine the existence of a serious and persistent breach of the values referred to in Article 2 TEU by a Member State and to take appropriate measures, including the suspension of certain rights deriving from the application of the Treaties, including the voting rights of the representative of the government of that Member State in the Council.

  • Article 50 (Withdrawal from the European Union): This article of the Treaty on European Union outlines the procedure for a Member State to withdraw from the Union.

Opt-outs

Certain member states of the European Union have negotiated specific exemptions, or “opt-outs,” from particular policies or areas of integration. These opt-outs reflect national sensitivities and political considerations, allowing for a degree of flexibility within the overarching framework of EU law. Examples include opt-outs from the euro and the Schengen Area .

Treaties of Accession

These treaties formalize the entry of new member states into the European Union, outlining the terms and conditions of their accession. Each treaty represents a significant expansion of the Union and a testament to its enduring appeal as a project of peace and cooperation.

  • 1972: Accession of Denmark, Ireland, and the United Kingdom.
  • 1979: Accession of Greece.
  • 1985: Accession of Spain and Portugal.
  • 1994: Accession of Austria, Finland, and Sweden.
  • 2003: Accession of Cyprus, the Czech Republic, Estonia, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, Malta, Poland, Slovakia, and Slovenia.
  • 2005: Accession of Bulgaria and Romania.
  • 2011: Accession of Croatia.

Treaties of Withdrawal

These treaties govern the departure of a member state from the European Union.

  • 1984: Withdrawal of Greenland from the European Communities.
  • 2020: Withdrawal of the United Kingdom (“Brexit”) (Brexit withdrawal agreement).

Other Treaties

Beyond accession and withdrawal, several other significant treaties have shaped the EU’s framework:

  • Schengen Agreement (Schengen Agreement) (1985): This agreement, initially signed by five European countries, aimed to abolish internal border controls, creating a zone of free movement for people.
  • European Economic Area Agreement (European Economic Area) (1992): This agreement extended the European Single Market to non-EU member states Iceland, Liechtenstein, and Norway, allowing them to participate in the EU’s internal market.

Abandoned Treaties and Agreements

Not all proposals for European integration have come to fruition. Several significant treaties and agreements have been abandoned or failed to be ratified, reflecting the complex political dynamics and differing visions for Europe’s future.

  • European Constitution (Treaty establishing a Constitution for Europe) (2004): This ambitious treaty aimed to consolidate and simplify the EU’s existing treaties, but it was ultimately rejected by referendums in France and the Netherlands.
  • UK membership renegotiation (2015–2016 United Kingdom renegotiation of European Union membership) (2015–2016): This period saw the UK government attempt to renegotiate its membership terms, culminating in the Brexit referendum.

Executive Institutions

The executive functions of the European Union are carried out by several key institutions, each with distinct roles and responsibilities in shaping and implementing EU policy.

European Council

The European Council represents the highest political level of the EU, bringing together the heads of state or government of the member states, along with its own President and the President of the European Commission. It defines the general political direction and priorities of the EU.

  • President of the European Council: AntĂłnio Costa (PES) - The current President, elected for a two-and-a-half-year term, plays a crucial role in chairing meetings and representing the EU externally on foreign and security policy at the highest level.
  • Parties: Political alignments within the European Council reflect the broader European political landscape.
  • List of meetings: A comprehensive record of the European Council’s deliberations and decisions.

European Commission

The European Commission is the executive arm of the EU, responsible for proposing legislation, implementing decisions, upholding the EU treaties, and managing the day-to-day business of the Union. It acts in the general interest of the EU, independently of national governments.

  • Von der Leyen Commission: The current Commission, led by President Ursula von der Leyen.
  • President of the European Commission: Ursula von der Leyen (EPP) - The political leader of the Commission, responsible for its overall direction.
  • Vice Presidents: A team of Commissioners with specific portfolios, assisting the President.
  • College of Commissioners: The entire body of Commissioners, each responsible for a specific policy area.
  • Civil Service: The administrative backbone of the Commission, comprising tens of thousands of officials.
  • Secretary-General: Ilze Juhansone - Oversees the internal functioning and administrative support of the Commission.

Legislative Institutions

The legislative power within the EU is shared primarily between the Council of the European Union and the European Parliament .

Council of the European Union

The Council of the European Union , often referred to as the Council of Ministers, represents the governments of the individual member states. It negotiates and adopts EU laws, coordinates economic policies, and defines the Common Foreign and Security Policy.

  • Presidency: The presidency of the Council rotates among the member states every six months, providing leadership and setting the agenda for Council meetings. The 2025 Danish Presidency is scheduled for July–December 2025.
  • Configurations: The Council meets in various configurations depending on the policy area, such as the General Affairs Council (GAC), Foreign Affairs Council (FAC), and Economic and Financial Affairs Council (ECOFIN).
    • GAC
    • FAC
    • ECOFIN
    • Eurogroup
    • AGRIFISH (Agriculture and Fisheries Council)
    • EPSCO (Employment, Social Policy, Health and Consumer Affairs Council)
    • COMPET (Competitiveness Council)
    • TTE (Transport, Telecommunications and Energy Council)
    • ENVI (Environment Council)
    • JHA (Justice and Home Affairs Council)
    • EYC (Education, Youth, Culture and Sport Council)
  • Voting: The Council employs various voting methods, including simple majority, qualified majority, and unanimity, depending on the subject matter.
  • Secretariat: The General Secretariat of the Council of the European Union provides administrative and logistical support.
  • Secretary-General: ThĂŠrèse Blanchet - The head of the General Secretariat.
  • Directorates-general: Specialized departments within the Secretariat.
  • Council preparatory bodies: These include committees and working parties that prepare the work of the Council.
    • COREPER : Composed of the permanent representatives of the member states to the EU, responsible for preparing the work of the Council.
    • Council Working Parties : Numerous specialized groups focusing on specific policy areas.
European Parliament

The European Parliament is the directly elected legislative body of the EU. It shares legislative power with the Council of the EU and scrutinizes the other EU institutions, particularly the Commission.

  • Members: Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) are elected every five years. The current parliamentary term is the Tenth European Parliament (2024–2029).
  • President: Roberta Metsola - Presides over the Parliament’s sessions and represents it externally.
  • Largest groups: MEPs are organized into political groups based on their political affiliations, such as the EPP (European People’s Party group) led by Manfred Weber, and the S&D (Progressive Alliance of Socialists and Democrats) led by Iratxe GarcĂ­a.
  • Bureau: The administrative body of the Parliament.
  • Vice Presidents: Elected to support the President.
  • Quaestor: Responsible for administrative and financial matters directly affecting MEPs.
  • Conference of Presidents: Composed of the President of the Parliament and the leaders of the political groups, it discusses legislative planning and inter-institutional relations.

National Parliaments

National parliaments play a crucial role in the EU’s democratic process, scrutinizing EU legislation and holding their national governments accountable for their actions within the EU framework.

Judicial Institutions

The judicial system of the European Union ensures that EU law is interpreted and applied uniformly across all member states.

Court of Justice of the EU

The Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU) is the supreme court of the EU in relation to EU law. It comprises two main courts:

  • European Court of Justice (European Court of Justice): This court hears references for preliminary rulings from national courts, certain direct actions, and appeals from the General Court.
    • Members: Judges appointed by common accord of the governments of the member states.
    • Advocates General: Assist the Court in its work by providing independent opinions on cases.
    • Rulings: Decisions of the Court are binding on national courts and EU institutions.
  • General Court (General Court (European Union)): This court hears direct actions brought by individuals, companies, and in some cases, member states and EU institutions. It handles cases related to competition law, state aid, intellectual property, and challenges to EU acts.

Auditory Institutions

These institutions are responsible for overseeing the financial management and legality of EU actions.

European Court of Auditors

The European Court of Auditors (ECA) is the EU’s independent external auditor. It checks that EU funds are collected and spent correctly, contributes to improving financial management, and reports its findings to the European Parliament and the Council.

Other Auditory Bodies

A range of other bodies contribute to financial oversight and the fight against fraud within the EU:

  • Internal Audit Service of the Commission: Provides independent, objective assurance and consulting services designed to add value and improve the Commission’s operations.
  • Committee on Budgetary Control of the Parliament: The European Parliament committee responsible for overseeing the EU budget implementation and the work of the ECA.
  • Economic and Financial Affairs configuration of the Council (ECOFIN): While primarily a legislative body, it also plays a role in fiscal matters and economic governance.
  • European Anti-Fraud Office (OLAF): Investigates fraud affecting the EU budget and corruption within the EU institutions.
  • Public Prosecutor’s Office: The European Public Prosecutor’s Office (EPPO) investigates and prosecutes crimes against the EU budget.

European Central Bank

The European Central Bank (ECB) is the central bank for the euro and manages the monetary policy of the Eurozone . Its primary objective is to maintain price stability.

Other Bodies

A diverse array of other institutions and bodies contribute to the functioning of the European Union, encompassing financial stability, research, and specialized agencies.

European Investment Bank Group

The European Investment Bank (EIB) Group is the EU’s long-term lending institution, financing viable investment projects that contribute to the integration and balanced development of the EU.

  • Investment Bank: The EIB itself.
  • Investment Fund: The European Investment Fund (EIF), which supports small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
  • EIB Institute: Promotes and supports the economic, social, and environmental objectives of the EU.

European Stability Mechanism

The European Stability Mechanism (ESM) is an intergovernmental organization established by the member states of the Eurozone to provide financial assistance to Eurozone countries in difficulty.

  • European Stability Mechanism (European Stability Mechanism)

European University Institute

The European University Institute (EUI) is an international postgraduate research and educational institution located in Florence, Italy, focused on the social and human sciences.

  • European University Institute (European University Institute)

Unified Patent Court

The Unified Patent Court (UPC) is an international court that will handle the infringement and validity of European patents.

  • Unified Patent Court (Unified Patent Court)

Agencies, decentralised independent bodies and joint undertakings

The EU has established a wide range of agencies and other bodies to carry out specific technical, scientific, or managerial tasks. These entities operate with a degree of autonomy and contribute to the implementation of EU policies across various sectors.

  • Decentralised agencies of the EU: These agencies are established by secondary legislation and operate independently, contributing to the implementation of EU policies.
  • Single market agencies: Agencies focused on ensuring the smooth functioning of the internal market.
  • CFSP agencies: Agencies involved in the Common Foreign and Security Policy.
  • AFSC agencies: Agencies related to the Common Security and Defence Policy.
  • ESFS European Supervisory Authorities: These include the European Banking Authority (EBA), the European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA), and the European Insurance and Occupational Pensions Authority (EIOPA), which play a key role in financial regulation and supervision.
  • SRM bodies: Bodies related to the Single Resolution Mechanism, established to ensure the orderly resolution of failing banks.
  • Executive agencies of the EU: These agencies manage EU programmes on behalf of the European Commission.
  • Euratom agencies: Agencies related to the European Atomic Energy Community.
  • Decentralised independent bodies of the EU: This category includes a variety of entities with specific mandates.
    • European Institute of Innovation and Technology (European Institute of Innovation and Technology) (EIT): Fosters innovation and entrepreneurship through its Knowledge and Innovation Communities.
    • European Public Prosecutor’s Office (European Public Prosecutor’s Office) (EPPO): As mentioned previously, this body combats financial crimes against the EU budget.
  • Corporate bodies of the EU: These are established by the Treaties and have specific legal personalities.
    • European Data Protection Board (European Data Protection Board) (EDPB): Ensures the consistent application of data protection rules across the EU.
    • Authority for European Political Parties and European Political Foundations: Regulates European political parties and foundations.
  • Joint undertakings: These bodies are established to implement specific EU research and development programmes.
    • Joint undertakings of the EU
    • Joint undertakings of the Euratom

Other independent bodies

Beyond the agencies, several other independent bodies play critical roles in oversight and accountability:

  • European Data Protection Supervisor (European Data Protection Supervisor) (EDPS): Monitors the processing of personal data by EU institutions and bodies.
  • European Ombudsman (European Ombudsman): Investigates maladministration by EU institutions and bodies.

Advisory bodies

These bodies provide opinions and advice to the EU institutions, representing various stakeholders and perspectives.

  • European Committee of the Regions (European Committee of the Regions) (CoR): Represents regional and local authorities.
  • European Economic and Social Committee (European Economic and Social Committee) (EESC): Represents employers, workers, and other interest groups.
  • Political and Security Committee (Political and Security Committee) (PSC): Deals with the Common Foreign and Security Policy (CFSP), including the Common Security and Defence Policy (CSDP).
  • European Union Military Committee (European Union Military Committee) (EUMC): The highest military body within the EU, advising the Political and Security Committee.
  • EU/ESA Space Council: A joint body for cooperation between the European Union and the European Space Agency.

Inter-institutional bodies

These bodies are established to facilitate cooperation and coordination between different EU institutions.

  • Publications Office of the European Union: Publishes official publications of the EU.
  • European External Action Service (European External Action Service) (EEAS): Supports the High Representative in conducting the EU’s Common Foreign and Security Policy.
  • European Personnel Selection Office (EPSO): Manages the recruitment of staff for EU institutions.
  • Anti-Fraud Office: As mentioned, this is OLAF, responsible for investigating fraud.
  • European Administrative School: Aims to provide training for EU civil servants.

Euratom

The European Atomic Energy Community (Euratom) was established to promote the peaceful use of nuclear energy and ensure safety standards. Its membership largely mirrors that of the EU.

Euratom members

  • Austria
  • Belgium
  • Bulgaria
  • Croatia
  • Cyprus
  • Czech Republic
  • Denmark
  • Estonia
  • Finland
  • France
  • Germany
  • Greece
  • Hungary
  • Ireland
  • Italy
  • Latvia
  • Lithuania
  • Luxembourg
  • Malta
  • Netherlands
  • Poland
  • Portugal
  • Romania
  • Slovakia
  • Slovenia
  • Spain
  • Sweden

Associated states

  • Switzerland

  • United Kingdom

  • Nuclear power in the European Union (Nuclear power in the European Union): This topic covers the use and regulation of nuclear energy within the EU.

  • Euratom since 1 January 2021: This indicates the operational status or relevant developments concerning Euratom as of that date.

Economic and Monetary Union

The Economic and Monetary Union of the European Union (EMU) represents a significant step towards deeper economic integration, characterized by the coordination of economic and fiscal policies and the adoption of a single currency, the euro, by many member states.

Eurozone members

The Eurozone comprises the EU member states that have adopted the euro as their national currency.

  • Austria
  • Belgium
  • Croatia
  • Cyprus
  • Estonia
  • Finland
  • France
  • Germany
  • Greece
  • Ireland
  • Italy
  • Latvia
  • Lithuania
  • Luxembourg
  • Malta
  • Netherlands
  • Portugal
  • Slovakia
  • Slovenia
  • Spain

Eurogroup

The Eurogroup is an informal body comprising the finance ministers of the Eurozone member states. It discusses issues related to the common currency and the economic governance of the Eurozone.

  • President: Vacant - Indicates a current absence of a formally appointed president.

Other currencies in use

While the euro is the common currency for a significant number of member states, others retain their national currencies.

  • Bulgarian lev

  • Czech koruna

  • Danish krone (Opt-out of the euro )

  • Hungarian forint

  • Polish złoty

  • Romanian leu

  • Swedish krona

  • ERM II: The European Exchange Rate Mechanism (ERM II) is a system that links non-euro EU currencies to the euro, serving as a precursor to euro adoption.

  • Enlargement of the eurozone: The process by which new member states adopt the euro.

Non Euro countries relationship to Euro

These sections detail the specific relationships and pathways of EU member states that have not yet adopted the euro.

  • Bulgaria (Bulgaria and the euro)

  • Czechia (Czech Republic and the euro)

  • Denmark (Denmark and the euro)

  • Hungary (Hungary and the euro)

  • Poland (Poland and the euro)

  • Sweden (Sweden and the euro)

  • Romania (Romania and the euro)

  • Eurozone since 2023: This notation indicates that a particular country or set of countries joined the Eurozone in 2023.

Schengen Area

The Schengen Area represents a unique zone within Europe where internal border controls have been abolished, allowing for free movement of people. It comprises both EU member states and some non-EU countries.

  • Schengen Area members (EU):

    • Austria
    • Belgium
    • Bulgaria
    • Croatia
    • Czech Republic
    • Denmark
    • Estonia
    • Finland
    • France
    • Germany
    • Greece
    • Hungary
    • Italy
    • Latvia
    • Lithuania
    • Luxembourg
    • Malta
    • Netherlands
    • Poland
    • Portugal
    • Romania
    • Slovakia
    • Slovenia
    • Spain
    • Sweden

  • Non-EU members:

    • Iceland
    • Liechtenstein
    • Norway
    • Switzerland

  • Non-Schengen area EU member states:

    • Cyprus
    • Ireland (Opt-out) - Ireland is the only EU member state that has not fully joined the Schengen Area, maintaining its Common Travel Area with the United Kingdom.

  • EES: The Entry/Exit System (EES) is an automated IT system for registering travellers from non-EU countries each time they cross an EU external border.

  • ETIAS: The European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) will be a travel authorisation for visa-exempt travellers to the Schengen Area.

  • PrĂźm Convention: An agreement facilitating the exchange of information between member states on DNA, fingerprints, and vehicle registration data.

  • Schengen Information System (Schengen Information System) (SIS): A large-scale information system for border and immigration management within the Schengen Area.

  • Visa Information System (Visa Information System) (VIS): A system for exchanging Schengen visa data.

  • Visa policy of the Schengen Area: The common visa policy applied by Schengen member states.

  • Schengen Area from January 2025: This indicates a future implementation date for specific Schengen-related measures or expansions.

European Economic Area

The European Economic Area (EEA) extends the European Single Market to non-EU countries, allowing them to participate in the EU’s internal market under certain conditions.

EEA members

The EEA comprises the EU member states and three EFTA states:

  • Austria
  • Belgium
  • Bulgaria
  • Croatia
  • Cyprus
  • Czech Republic
  • Denmark
  • Estonia
  • Finland
  • France
  • Germany
  • Greece
  • Hungary
  • Ireland
  • Italy
  • Latvia
  • Lithuania
  • Luxembourg
  • Malta
  • Netherlands
  • Poland
  • Portugal
  • Romania
  • Slovakia
  • Slovenia
  • Spain
  • Sweden

Non-EU members

  • Iceland
  • Liechtenstein
  • Norway

Topics

  • EEA Joint Committee: The body responsible for managing the EEA Agreement.
  • EEA National Identity cards: Regulations concerning national identity cards within the EEA.
  • Microstates and the European Union: As previously mentioned, this covers the specific relationships of microstates.

Elections

Elections are a cornerstone of the European Union’s democratic legitimacy, with citizens directly electing representatives to the European Parliament .

  • Elections to the European Parliament: The process by which Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) are elected.
  • European parties: Political parties that operate at the European level.
  • European foundations: Organizations that support European political parties.
  • Political groups of the European Parliament: Alliances of MEPs from different member states, organized by political affiliation.
  • Spitzenkandidat: The process by which European political parties nominate lead candidates for the position of President of the European Commission.
  • Constituencies: The electoral districts within member states for European Parliament elections.
  • Apportionment: The allocation of seats in the European Parliament among member states.
  • Referendums related to the EU: National referendums held on issues concerning the EU.

European elections

A chronological list of past European Parliament elections:

  • 1979
  • 1984
  • 1989
  • 1994
  • 1999
  • 2004
  • 2009
  • 2014
  • 2019
  • 2024 (latest election)

Elections in EU member states

A comprehensive list of national elections within each EU member state, reflecting their individual democratic processes:

  • Austria
  • Belgium
  • Bulgaria
  • Croatia
  • Cyprus
  • Czech Republic
  • Denmark
  • Estonia
  • Finland
  • France
  • Germany
  • Greece
  • Hungary
  • Ireland
  • Italy
  • Latvia
  • Lithuania
  • Luxembourg
  • Malta
  • Netherlands
  • Poland
  • Portugal
  • Romania
  • Slovakia
  • Slovenia
  • Spain
  • Sweden

Law

European Union law is a unique legal order that applies concurrently with the national laws of the member states. It governs a vast array of policy areas and is binding on EU institutions, member states, and individuals.

  • Acquis: The entire body of EU law, including treaties, regulations, directives, and case law.
  • Conferral: The principle that the EU can only act within the limits of the competences conferred upon it by the member states in the Treaties.
  • Primacy: The principle that EU law takes precedence over conflicting national law. This was established in landmark cases such as ECJ Case 6/64 - Costa v ENEL .
  • Subsidiarity: The principle that the EU should only act in areas where it has shared competence if the objectives cannot be sufficiently achieved by the member states acting alone.
  • Regulation: A binding legislative act of the EU, directly applicable in all member states.
  • Democratic legitimacy: The principle that the EU’s actions should be grounded in the consent of its citizens, primarily expressed through elections to the European Parliament.
  • Directive: A binding legislative act that sets out a goal that all EU countries must achieve. However, it is up to the individual countries to devise their own laws on how to reach these goals.
  • Decision: A binding legislative act that applies to specific addressees – a member state, a group of persons, or a particular person.
  • Recommendation: A non-binding act that offers guidance or suggestions.
  • Fundamental Rights: The Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union enshrines a wide range of civil, political, economic, and social rights for EU citizens.

Policies and Issues

The European Union pursues a broad range of policies designed to promote economic prosperity, social cohesion, and security across the continent.

  • Budget: The EU budget funds various programmes and initiatives.
  • Customs Union: A key element of the European Union Customs Union , ensuring common tariffs on goods imported from outside the EU.
  • Free Trade Agreements: The EU negotiates and maintains a network of European Union free trade agreements with countries worldwide.
  • European Single Market: The cornerstone of the EU’s economic integration, allowing for the free movement of goods, services, capital, and people.
  • Area of Freedom, Security and Justice (FS&J): This area encompasses policies related to migration, asylum, judicial cooperation, and law enforcement.
  • Policies:
  • Citizenship: Citizenship of the European Union grants specific rights to nationals of member states.
  • Passports of the European Union: While member states issue their own passports, there are common provisions and designs for Passports of the European Union .
  • Identity: The concept of a Pan-European identity and its relationship with national identities.
  • Pro-Europeanism: Support for European integration.
  • Euroscepticism: Skepticism or opposition towards the European Union.
  • European banking union: A framework for banking supervision and resolution in the Eurozone.
    • European Banking Supervision: Overseen by the ECB.
    • Single Resolution Mechanism: Ensures the orderly resolution of failing banks.
  • Capital Markets Union: An initiative to create a deeper and more integrated capital market in the EU.
  • European System of Financial Supervision (ESFS): The framework for supervising the EU’s financial sector.
  • Institutional seats of the European Union: The official locations of the EU’s institutions.
  • Integration: The process of deepening cooperation and convergence among member states.
  • Supranationalism: The principle that EU institutions have authority that transcends national governments.
  • European Federation: A theoretical concept of a federal state encompassing Europe.
  • Multi-speed Europe: The idea that member states can integrate at different paces in certain policy areas.
  • Enhanced cooperation: A mechanism allowing a group of member states to proceed with integration in specific areas.

Foreign relations

The EU pursues a Common Foreign and Security Policy (CFSP) to speak with a single voice on the international stage.

High Representative

The High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy (HR/VP) is the EU’s chief diplomat, responsible for leading its foreign policy.

Foreign relations of EU member states

Each member state also maintains its own foreign relations, conducted within the framework of EU coordination where applicable.

  • Austria
  • Belgium
  • Bulgaria
  • Croatia
  • Cyprus
  • Czech Republic
  • Denmark
  • Estonia
  • Finland
  • France
  • Germany
  • Greece
  • Hungary
  • Ireland
  • Italy
  • Latvia
  • Lithuania
  • Luxembourg
  • Malta
  • Netherlands
  • Poland
  • Portugal
  • Romania
  • Slovakia
  • Slovenia
  • Spain
  • Sweden

Bilateral and Multilateral Relations

The EU engages in a wide range of bilateral and multilateral relationships with countries and organizations around the globe.

  • Argentina–European Union relations

  • Armenia–European Union relations

  • ASEAN–European Union relations

  • Australia–European Union relations

  • Brazil–European Union relations

  • Canada–European Union relations

  • China–European Union relations

  • European Union–NATO relations

  • Georgia–European Union relations

  • Iceland–European Union relations

  • Iran–European Union relations

  • Israel–European Union relations

  • Japan–European Union relations

  • Kazakhstan–European Union relations

  • Mexico–European Union relations

  • Moldova–European Union relations

  • Norway–European Union relations

  • Russia–European Union relations

  • Switzerland–European Union relations

  • Turkey–European Union relations

  • Ukraine–European Union relations

  • United Kingdom–European Union relations (History: United Kingdom membership of the European Union )

  • Post-Brexit United Kingdom relations with the European Union

  • Brexit

  • United States–European Union relations

  • Common Travel Area (Ireland): This refers to the reciprocal arrangements between the Republic of Ireland and the United Kingdom.

  • Microstates and the European Union: Discussed previously.

  • European Union and the United Nations: The EU’s role within the UN system.

  • European Union Association Agreement: Agreements establishing a framework for political and economic cooperation with third countries.

  • European Neighbourhood Policy: A policy aimed at bringing EU neighbours closer to the EU.

  • Eastern Partnership: A specific dimension of the Neighbourhood Policy focusing on Eastern European countries.

  • Euronest Parliamentary Assembly: A forum for cooperation between the European Parliament and national parliaments of the Eastern Partnership countries.

  • G7: The European Union participates in G7 summits.

  • G20: The European Union is a member of the G20.

Defunct bodies

Several institutions and communities that were once central to European integration have since been superseded or dissolved.

  • European Communities (1958–1993): The collective term for the European Coal and Steel Community (ECSC), the European Economic Community (EEC), and the European Atomic Energy Community (Euratom) prior to the Maastricht Treaty.
    • European Coal and Steel Community (European Coal and Steel Community)
    • European Economic Community (European Economic Community)
  • European Community (European Community): The successor to the EEC after the Maastricht Treaty, until the Lisbon Treaty.
  • Western European Union (Western European Union) (WEU): An organization for cooperation on security and defence matters, largely superseded by the EU’s Common Security and Defence Policy.
  • Convention on the Future of Europe (Convention on the Future of Europe): A body established to draft the European Constitution.

European Union Portal

• Other countries

• v • t • e

The Europe Declaration (1951)

The Europe Declaration, also sometimes referred to as the Charter of the Community, stands as a significant joint statement issued in 1951 by the Foreign Ministers of six foundational European nations: Belgium , France , Italy , Luxembourg , the Netherlands , and West Germany . This declaration emerged at a pivotal moment: the signing of the Treaty of Paris on April 18, 1951. This treaty, itself a monumental achievement, established the European Coal and Steel Community (ECSC), a groundbreaking initiative born from the visionary Schuman Plan .

The Europe Declaration articulated a profound vision, asserting that the ECSC represented not merely an economic agreement, but the very genesis of Europe as a cohesive political, economic, and social entity. It sought to embody and extend the core principles that Robert Schuman had so eloquently laid out in his seminal Schuman Declaration of 1950. Within its text lies a powerful statement of intent and aspiration:

“By the signature of this Treaty, the involved parties give proof of their determination to create the first supranational institution and that thus they are laying the true foundation of an organised Europe. This Europe remains open to all European countries that have freedom of choice. We profoundly hope that other countries will join us in our common endeavour.” [1]

The signatories to this historic document were luminaries of post-war European reconstruction: Konrad Adenauer for West Germany, Joseph Bech for Luxembourg, Robert Schuman for France, Count Carlo Sforza for Italy, Dirk Stikker and Jan van den Brink for the Netherlands, and Paul van Zeeland and Joseph Meurice for Belgium. Their collective aim was to impress upon future generations the enduring responsibility they held to forge a united Europe, a Europe founded on the unshakeable pillars of liberty, democracy, and the rule of law . Consequently, the signers viewed the Europe Declaration not as a mere formality, but as a crucial, foundational step in the long and complex process of European integration.