European Union

The European Union (EU) is a supranational political and economic union of 27 member states that are located primarily in Europe. The Union has a total area of 4,233,255 km2 (1,634,469 sq mi) and an estimated total population of over 449 million. The EU has often been described as a sui generis political entity combining the characteristics of both a federation and a confederation.
european-union

Some of the key events about European Union

  • 1951
    Establishment of the European Coal and Steel Community, laying the foundation for European integration
  • 1957
    Signing of the Treaty of Rome, creating the European Economic Community and Euratom
  • 1968
    Completion of the customs union, eliminating customs duties between member states
  • 1979
    First direct elections to the European Parliament, enhancing democratic representation
  • 1985
    Adoption of the Schengen Agreement, paving the way for borderless travel within Europe
  • 1992
    Signing of the Maastricht Treaty, establishing the European Union and laying groundwork for the euro
  • 1992
    The Danish rejection of the Maastricht Treaty in a referendum temporarily halted EU integration efforts
  • 1999
    Introduction of the euro as an accounting currency, promoting economic integration
  • 1999
    The entire European Commission resigned due to allegations of corruption and mismanagement
  • 2002
    Physical euro coins and banknotes enter circulation in 12 EU countries
  • 2003
    Disagreements over the Iraq War exposed divisions within the EU on foreign policy
  • 2004
    Largest single expansion of the EU, with 10 new countries joining
  • 2005
    French and Dutch voters rejected the proposed EU Constitution in referendums
  • 2008
    The EU's response to the global financial crisis was criticized as slow and inadequate
  • 2010
    The European debt crisis began, exposing weaknesses in the Eurozone's economic structure
  • 2012
    EU awarded Nobel Peace Prize for advancing peace, reconciliation, democracy, and human rights in Europe
  • 2015
    The EU struggled to develop a unified response to the European migrant crisis
  • 2016
    The United Kingdom voted to leave the European Union in the Brexit referendum
  • 2018
    The EU faced criticism for its handling of rule of law concerns in member states like Poland and Hungary
  • 2020
    Initial EU response to the COVID-19 pandemic was criticized for lack of coordination and solidarity

Disclaimer: This material is written based on information taken from open sources, including Wikipedia, news media, podcasts, and other public sources.

European Union Latest news

Chinese trade data shows problems as Trump prepares White House comeback

Chinese trade data shows problems as Trump prepares White House comeback

December 10 2024 , 11:39 AM  •  1565 views
Ukraine leader opens door to peace talks as Trump prepares White House return

Ukraine leader opens door to peace talks as Trump prepares White House return

December 10 2024 , 12:19 AM  •  812 views
Austria changes mind about letting Romania and Bulgaria into border-free zone

Austria changes mind about letting Romania and Bulgaria into border-free zone

December 9 2024 , 08:26 PM  •  709 views
EU countries demand new laws as vaping products slip through tax loopholes

EU countries demand new laws as vaping products slip through tax loopholes

December 9 2024 , 05:11 PM  •  1050 views
British finance chief plans first EU meeting since Brexit - what to expect?

British finance chief plans first EU meeting since Brexit - what to expect?

December 9 2024 , 03:45 AM  •  1031 views
Romanian election drama: Court stops vote over foreign influence claims

Romanian election drama: Court stops vote over foreign influence claims

December 8 2024 , 03:18 PM  •  3590 views
German far-right party picks unusual leader to run for chancellor seat

German far-right party picks unusual leader to run for chancellor seat

December 7 2024 , 12:27 PM  •  1719 views
Chaos in Romania: Court stops presidential race over foreign meddling claims

Chaos in Romania: Court stops presidential race over foreign meddling claims

December 7 2024 , 01:42 AM  •  3235 views
Why one Eastern European country's democracy took an unexpected path

Why one Eastern European country's democracy took an unexpected path

December 7 2024 , 01:06 AM  •  806 views
Breaking: Romania stops presidential vote as cyber-attacks hit election systems

Breaking: Romania stops presidential vote as cyber-attacks hit election systems

December 7 2024 , 12:05 AM  •  780 views
Georgian courts lock up opposition figures as EU-related protests heat up

Georgian courts lock up opposition figures as EU-related protests heat up

December 6 2024 , 10:45 PM  •  885 views
How one Central European country fooled everyone about its democracy

How one Central European country fooled everyone about its democracy

December 6 2024 , 10:18 PM  •  990 views
Historic EU-South America trade deal finally comes through after 20-year wait

Historic EU-South America trade deal finally comes through after 20-year wait

December 6 2024 , 05:59 PM  •  2181 views
Romanian election gets canceled just days before final round

Romanian election gets canceled just days before final round

December 6 2024 , 04:26 PM  •  569 views
Greek government steps in with new power bill help as winter approaches

Greek government steps in with new power bill help as winter approaches

December 6 2024 , 02:01 PM  •  1733 views
Georgia's pro-EU movement puts country at crossroads with Russia

Georgia's pro-EU movement puts country at crossroads with Russia

December 6 2024 , 01:33 PM  •  684 views
Latin America's power moves: From trade deals to Trump's new threats

Latin America's power moves: From trade deals to Trump's new threats

December 6 2024 , 01:05 PM  •  527 views
Major trade deal between EU and South America hangs by thread as France says no

Major trade deal between EU and South America hangs by thread as France says no

December 6 2024 , 12:59 PM  •  588 views
Georgian streets fill with protesters after government's shocking EU decision

Georgian streets fill with protesters after government's shocking EU decision

December 6 2024 , 11:48 AM  •  1209 views
Romania's election surprise could reshape eastern Europe's power balance

Romania's election surprise could reshape eastern Europe's power balance

December 6 2024 , 09:17 AM  •  2411 views
Georgia's path to EU hits roadblock as hundreds face arrest in Tbilisi

Georgia's path to EU hits roadblock as hundreds face arrest in Tbilisi

Mass-arrests sweep through Georgiaʼs capital during pro-EU demonstrations that started last winter. Over 400 people detained while masked groups target opposition members and journalists in series of attacks

Society, Politics • December 11 2024 , 11:57 PM  •  54311 views
Poland pushes for huge EU defense money pool as Russia worries grow

Poland pushes for huge EU defense money pool as Russia worries grow

Poland wants to lead EU-wide defense funding talks during its upcoming presidency. The plan needs about 500-billion euros over next decade while Europe faces east-side risks

Economics, Politics • December 11 2024 , 04:58 PM  •  8198 views
Syrian refugees in Europe face uncertainty after Assad's sudden departure

Syrian refugees in Europe face uncertainty after Assad's sudden departure

Syrian presidentʼs unexpected exile to Russia puts thousands of EU asylum cases on pause. Many refugees who built new lives in Europe over the last decade now worry about forced returns

Society, Politics • December 11 2024 , 04:43 PM  •  7209 views
EU prepares new round of restrictions on Russian shadow fleet and allies

EU prepares new round of restrictions on Russian shadow fleet and allies

European Union diplomats gave green light to fresh sanctions targeting Russiaʼs war efforts. Package includes measures against third-country vessels and extends Czech Republicʼs import permissions

Economics, Politics • December 11 2024 , 04:27 PM  •  6797 views
EU lets Poland pause migrant entry rules to counter border issues

EU lets Poland pause migrant entry rules to counter border issues

Eastern EU countries got permission to stop taking asylum requests when facing border pressure from Belarus and Russia. Poland plans to use this option for up-to two months

Society, Politics • December 11 2024 , 02:29 PM  •  4518 views
Canadian government hits Chinese leaders with new penalties over human rights

Canadian government hits Chinese leaders with new penalties over human rights

Ottawa puts strict limits on 8 Chinese officials linked to actions in Xinjiang and Tibet. The move blocks their assets and stops any financial deals with Canadians‚ while Beijing pushes back against claims

Society, Politics • December 11 2024 , 12:47 PM  •  1862 views
EU plans first-ever penalties against digital attacks from Russia and others

EU plans first-ever penalties against digital attacks from Russia and others

European Union prepares to hit back at cyber-attacks and election meddling with new sanctions package. Brussels aims to punish 19 targets from various countries for undermining EU stability

Politics • December 10 2024 , 09:31 PM  •  966 views
Swedish minister points to Europe's real economic challenge at Reuters event

Swedish minister points to Europe's real economic challenge at Reuters event

At Reuters NEXT conference Swedish finance chief focuses on Europeʼs internal issues instead of US policy threats. Europe must take charge of its economic future rather than worry about external factors

Economics, Politics • December 10 2024 , 06:16 PM  •  1011 views
Poland's new leader hints at major Ukraine talks as EU role approaches

Poland's new leader hints at major Ukraine talks as EU role approaches

Polish head of government points to possible Ukraine peace talks in coming months. As Poland prepares to lead EU council his statement suggests significant diplomatic moves ahead

Politics • December 10 2024 , 02:45 PM  •  665 views
Poland takes lead in pushing for Ukraine-Russia peace talks this winter

Poland takes lead in pushing for Ukraine-Russia peace talks this winter

Poland steps up its diplomatic role as it prepares to lead EU presidency next month. **Donald Tusk** announces series of high-level meetings with European leaders to discuss potential peace negotiations

Society, Politics • December 10 2024 , 02:42 PM  •  585 views
Chinese trade data shows problems as Trump prepares White House comeback

Chinese trade data shows problems as Trump prepares White House comeback

Latest trade numbers from China show weaker-than-expected performance in exports and imports. Economic data raises questions about recovery as country faces new trade-related challenges from US

Economics, Politics • December 10 2024 , 11:39 AM  •  1565 views
Ukraine leader opens door to peace talks as Trump prepares White House return

Ukraine leader opens door to peace talks as Trump prepares White House return

**Volodymyr Zelenskiy** signals readiness for diplomatic solution during talks with German opposition leader. Key European meeting planned for this month to develop joint position for possible negotiations

Politics • December 10 2024 , 12:19 AM  •  812 views
Austria changes mind about letting Romania and Bulgaria into border-free zone

Austria changes mind about letting Romania and Bulgaria into border-free zone

Austrian officials dropped their block on Romania and Bulgaria joining the Schengen area fully. The decision comes after seeing big drops in illegal border-crossing numbers between Hungary and Austria

Society, Politics • December 9 2024 , 08:26 PM  •  709 views
EU countries demand new laws as vaping products slip through tax loopholes

EU countries demand new laws as vaping products slip through tax loopholes

Sixteen European Union nations join forces to push for updated tobacco taxation rules that would cover e-cigarettes. Current 13-year-old law doesnt address modern vaping products‚ creating tax confusion across EU

Business, Politics • December 9 2024 , 05:11 PM  •  1050 views
British finance chief plans first EU meeting since Brexit - what to expect?

British finance chief plans first EU meeting since Brexit - what to expect?

British finance minister prepares for groundbreaking EU meeting to discuss trade improvements. Its the first time since Brexit that UK joins euro-zone ministers gathering to talk about economic ties

Economics, Politics • December 9 2024 , 03:45 AM  •  1031 views
Romanian election drama: Court stops vote over foreign influence claims

Romanian election drama: Court stops vote over foreign influence claims

Romanian Constitutional Court stops presidential election just before final round due to alleged outside interference. Two main candidates express worry about democratic values in their country

Society, Politics • December 8 2024 , 03:18 PM  •  3590 views
German far-right party picks unusual leader to run for chancellor seat

German far-right party picks unusual leader to run for chancellor seat

AfDʼs co-leader **Alice Weidel** makes unexpected bid for Germanyʼs top job‚ despite other parties keeping distance. Her unique background and rising poll numbers bring fresh dynamics to upcoming election

Society, Politics • December 7 2024 , 12:27 PM  •  1719 views
Chaos in Romania: Court stops presidential race over foreign meddling claims

Chaos in Romania: Court stops presidential race over foreign meddling claims

Romaniaʼs top court canceled ongoing presidential elections due to alleged Russian cyber-attacks and social media influence Last weeks first round winner faces investigation‚ while EU-backed runner-up protests decision.

Society, Politics • December 7 2024 , 01:42 AM  •  3235 views
Why one Eastern European country's democracy took an unexpected path

Why one Eastern European country's democracy took an unexpected path

A deep-look into Hungaryʼs political shift from post-communist hope to modern-day control state. The story shows how one leader re-shaped an entire nationʼs system while keeping EU membership

Society, Politics • December 7 2024 , 01:06 AM  •  806 views
Breaking: Romania stops presidential vote as cyber-attacks hit election systems

Breaking: Romania stops presidential vote as cyber-attacks hit election systems

Romanian top court stops presidential election process due to cyber-security issues with voting systems. EU-Mercosur trade deal creates huge market while South Korean politics faces new crisis

Society, Politics • December 7 2024 , 12:05 AM  •  780 views
Georgian courts lock up opposition figures as EU-related protests heat up

Georgian courts lock up opposition figures as EU-related protests heat up

Georgian authorities detained two well-known opposition leaders during pro-EU demonstrations this week. Eight more activists face serious charges‚ while protests against frozen EU talks continue

Society, Politics • December 6 2024 , 10:45 PM  •  885 views
How one Central European country fooled everyone about its democracy

How one Central European country fooled everyone about its democracy

Post-communist Hungary went from democratic hope to EUʼs biggest headache in just a few decades. A mix of smart politics legal tricks and social attitudes helped create a system that looks democratic but isnt

Society, Politics • December 6 2024 , 10:18 PM  •  990 views
Historic EU-South America trade deal finally comes through after 20-year wait

Historic EU-South America trade deal finally comes through after 20-year wait

A ground-breaking trade partnership between EU and South American nations just got finalized after two decades of talks. The deal needs to pass through complex approval steps in both regions before taking effect

Economics, Politics • December 6 2024 , 05:59 PM  •  2181 views
Romanian election gets canceled just days before final round

Romanian election gets canceled just days before final round

Romaniaʼs constitutional court stopped presidential election process two days before final voting round. Decision comes after evidence of social-media manipulation and cyber-attacks linked to Russian influence

Society, Politics • December 6 2024 , 04:26 PM  •  569 views
Greek government steps in with new power bill help as winter approaches

Greek government steps in with new power bill help as winter approaches

Greece launches fresh electricity subsidies for households as power costs hit new peaks in Europe. The governmentʼs move aims to support 90% of home users during cold-weather months

Economics, Politics • December 6 2024 , 02:01 PM  •  1733 views
Georgia's pro-EU movement puts country at crossroads with Russia

Georgia's pro-EU movement puts country at crossroads with Russia

Mass-protests sweep Georgia after government blocks EU membership plans and uses force against citizens. High-ranking officials resign while President joins street demonstrations in support of EU path

Society, Politics • December 6 2024 , 01:33 PM  •  684 views
Latin America's power moves: From trade deals to Trump's new threats

Latin America's power moves: From trade deals to Trump's new threats

Latest shifts in Latin America show major trade developments and political changes. Uruguayʼs new leadership and Mexicoʼs diplomatic stance against Trumpʼs pressure highlight regionʼs dynamic landscape

Sports, Economics, Politics • December 6 2024 , 01:05 PM  •  527 views
Major trade deal between EU and South America hangs by thread as France says no

Major trade deal between EU and South America hangs by thread as France says no

After two decades of talks EU-Mercosur trade agreement reaches final stage but faces strong pushback from European nations. French opposition leads the way as both economic and environmental concerns rise

Economics, Politics • December 6 2024 , 12:59 PM  •  588 views
Georgian streets fill with protesters after government's shocking EU decision

Georgian streets fill with protesters after government's shocking EU decision

Mass protests sweep Georgia after government blocks EU membership plans and uses force against demonstrators. People from all walks-of-life join street rallies against pro-russian policies

Society, Politics • December 6 2024 , 11:48 AM  •  1209 views
Romania's election surprise could reshape eastern Europe's power balance

Romania's election surprise could reshape eastern Europe's power balance

A pro-russian candidate wins first round of Romanian presidential vote which might change regional politics. Three EU countries on Ukraineʼs border could form new political alliance with different views on current conflict

Economics, Politics • December 6 2024 , 09:17 AM  •  2411 views