The EU/European Union describes a economical and political union of 28 States. With an estimated population of around 510 million the European Union policies aim to allow the free movement of people, goods and services. Within the internal market it aims to maintain common policies on agriculture, trade and more.
Members
The EU and European citizenship were established in 1933. With the inner original 6 being Belgium, France, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, and West Germany. Although no member state has ever left, in 2016 the UK announced its intention to leave and has begun negotiating their departure for 2019.
More foreign aid is provided by the EU than any other economic union. Due to its Global influence and reach the Union has been described as an emerging superpower.
European Union Related Content
EU policy analysis of the Green Deal, climate, oceans and circular economy
The EU policy on the Green Deal, climate neutrality, oceans and fisheries, plus the circular economy are examined in this in-depth environment analysis.
Building a resilient and future-ready democracy in the EU
Dubravka Šuica, Vice-President for Democracy and Demography, charts her priorities for building a resilient and future-ready democracy in the EU.
EU research and innovation policies
Open Access Government provides an overview of Horizon 2020, the European Union’s research and innovation programme (2014-2020), its successor, Horizon Europe (2021-27), plus the European Research Area policy.
Ursula Von der Leyen aims for second term as European Commission president
Ursula Von der Leyen, the current president of the European Commission, has announced her bid for a second term.
A Call for Action to leave no one behind in the sustainability transition
On 25 January 2024, the Sustainable Solutions Development Network (SDNS), alongside the EESC, presented the Europe Sustainable Development Report 2023/24 (ESDR) and announced that when concerning the sustainability transition we can leave no one behind.
The future of EU Enlargement
European Economic and Social Committee President Oliver Röpke talks us through the next steps of the EU Enlargement plans to create a truly geopolitical EU.
Canada to join EU’s Horizon Europe: Opportunities and challenges
Canada's upcoming association with Horizon Europe, the EU's €95 billion research and innovation program, makes a significant milestone in global collaboration.
Migrants, immigrants, democracy and voting rights: The unheard voices of Britain
With voting rights at risk for certain demographics, it is more important than ever that we reinforce trust in the British democratic system and give a voice to all residents who call Britain home, argues Alina Vaduva, Royal Docks School of Business and Law.
European research, innovation and education
Open Access Government places the spotlight on research, innovation and education policy in Europe, with a particular focus on the European Education Area.
EU needs shared border management for human rights
José Antonio Moreno Díaz, EESC member and Co-rapporteur for the EESC opinion on Multiannual strategic policy for European integrated border management, says the EU needs shared border management that guarantees human rights.
The European Union’s Global Health program
The EDCTP partnership, a cornerstone of the EU's health research initiative that funds clinical trials in Africa, needs more certainty about its future as it marks its 20th anniversary.
Addressing oral health inequalities across Europe
Dr Freddie Sloth-Lisbjerg, President of the Council of European Dentists, examines the prevalence and impact of oral health inequalities and service disparities in Europe, exploring barriers to dental care access, the significance of workforce planning, policy recommendations and the transformative potential of digital healthcare in dentistry.
Preventing and managing diabetes: Strategies for combating the global health crisis
Stefano Del Prato and Bart Torbeyns from the European Diabetes Forum (EUDF) outline the major challenges in preventing and managing diabetes, and the actions policymakers and health systems can take to address them.
No case for rejoining the EU says Keir Starmer
Sir Keir Starmer, Labour Party leader, has firmly stated that there is no argument for rejoining the European Union following accusations from the government that he seeks to undo Brexit
The Conservatives have capitalised on remarks made by the Labour leader, who expressed that his party had no intention of...
Iliana Ivanova is appointed commissioner, EU ministers confirm
Iliana Ivanova is appointed commissioner for research, innovation, and education as confirmed by EU ministers and European Commission president.
Labour vows to rewrite Brexit deal: Keir Starmer’s pledge
Keir Starmer, the leader of the Labour Party, has pledged to rewrite Brexit deal with the European Union (EU) if his party secures victory in the next general election.
Unveiling EU research funding: Ivanova’s vision for Horizon Europe
Iliana Ivanova, slated to be the new Commissioner for Research and Innovation, to enhance EU research funding by exploring diverse financial sources as challenges to fund high-quality proposals in Horizon Europe.
Commission to impose restrictions for Huawei in Horizon Europe
The European Commission plans to modify the rules of Horizon Europe,, due to concerns over Huawei in Horizon Europe being a "high-risk" .
How to ensure your post-Brexit travel to the EU is seamless
Since January 31, 2020, British citizens' EU rights shifted. Grasping altered regulations, notably work visas is vital for smooth post-Brexit travel and entry.
Seeking solutions for poor wages in Europe
European employment indicators may seem optimistic, but poor wages contribute to financial distress for many families across the continent.