The European Union (EU) is a political and economic coalition comprising 27 member states across Europe. The member countries are:
- Austria
- Belgium
- Bulgaria
- Croatia
- Cyprus
- Czechia (Czech Republic)
- Denmark
- Estonia
- Finland
- France
- Germany
- Greece
- Hungary
- Ireland
- Italy
- Latvia
- Lithuania
- Luxembourg
- Malta
- Netherlands
- Poland
- Portugal
- Romania
- Slovakia
- Slovenia
- Spain
- Sweden
The EU was formally established on November 1, 1993, with the ratification of the Maastricht Treaty. This treaty marked a significant milestone in European integration, laying the groundwork for a unified economic and political structure.
One of the primary achievements of the EU is the creation of a single internal market. This market allows for the free movement of goods, services, capital, and people among member states, effectively functioning as a single economic entity. The EU has also implemented a range of standardized regulations and laws, facilitating greater coherence and cooperation among its members.
Through its various institutions and policies, the EU aims to foster economic collaboration, promote peace, and enhance the overall prosperity of its member countries.