EUROPEAN UNION The European Union (EU) is a political and economic community of twenty-seven member states , located primarily

in Europe . It was established in 1993 by the Treaty of Maastricht , adding new areas of policy to the existing European Community . With almost 500 million citizens, the EU combined generates an estimated 30% share of the world's nominal gross domestic product ( US$ 16.6 trillion) in 2007. Purpose of the European Union Peace and stability Bringing Europe together again Safety and security Economic and social solidarity Identity and diversity in a globalised world Values For its members to work together for advantages that would be out of their reach if each were working alone Believe that when countries work together they are a more powerful force in the world because they involve: More money More people More land area This helps make small countries more competitive in the world market

Founding members France West Germany

 Italy Belgium Netherlands Luxembourg HOW DOES IT WORKS To make these things happen, EU countries set up bodies to run the EU and adopt its legislation. The main ones are: European Parliament (representing the people of Europe) Council of the European Union (representing national governments) European Commission (representing the common EU interest). European ParliamentIs It is made up of Elected Members of the European Parliament (MEPs). Elections are held every 5 years Council of the European Union The council is made up of national ministers who with the European Parliament, adopt EU law European Commission Is made up of appointed Commissioners and the EUs civil service. The Commission is responsible for the day-to-day running of the the EU and ensures EU treaties are being complied with. The Commission is also responsible for proposing legislation and carrying out decisions made by the European Council

and Parliament.

Goals of the EU To continue to improve Europes economy by regulating trade and commerce. To form a single market for Europe's economic resources. As these goals were accomplished, other goals were developed: 1. Environmental movements Regulatory acts 2. Human rights concerns.

PRINCIPAL OBJECTS OF EU Establish European Citizenship Ensure freedom, security, and justice Promote economic and social progress Assert Europes role in the world

Benefits for the Members Members may use a common currency ( euro ) that makes trade easier EU works to improve trade, education, farming, & industry among its members 1. No tariffs (taxes) among member countries free trade zone

2. Citizens of one country can move freely to another country 3. Citizens can live and work in any other EU nation 4. Citizens can vote in local elections even if they arent citizens of the country

BASIS OF THE EUROPEAN UNION The European Union is based on the rule of law and democracy. It is neither a new State replacing existing ones nor is it comparable to other international organizations. Its Member States delegate sovereignty to common institutions representing the interests of the Union as a whole on questions of joint interest. All decisions and procedures are derived from the basic treaties ratified by the Member States.