European Union Organization

The European Union (EU) is a unique political and economic partnership that unites 27 member states primarily located in Europe. The EU is a supranational organization, meaning it has the capability to make decisions that are binding on its member states. This union was established with the aim of fostering economic cooperation, which was believed to reduce the likelihood of conflict, in the aftermath of World War II.

Member States

The EU is composed of 27 member states that are party to the EU's founding treaties. These treaties outline the privileges and obligations of the member states, as well as the framework within which the EU operates. Each member state retains its sovereignty but shares it with the EU to achieve common goals.

Governance and Institutions

The EU's organizational structure includes several key institutions that work together to manage the union effectively:

European Parliament: This is one of the EU's two legislative bodies. It represents EU citizens and is directly elected by them. Together with the Council of the European Union, it adopts legislation and the EU budget.
European Commission: The Commission serves as the executive branch of the EU. It proposes legislation, enforces EU laws, and manages day-to-day business and budget.
Council of the European Union: Often confused with the European Council, this institution represents the governments of the member states and, together with the European Parliament, adopts EU legislation.
European Council: This body defines the overall political direction and priorities of the EU. It is composed of the heads of state or government of the member states, along with the President of the European Council and the President of the European Commission.

Economic and Monetary Union

The EU has established a European Union Customs Union, which permits tariff-free trade between member states and adopts a common external tariff on imports from non-EU countries. Additionally, the Eurozone includes 19 of the member states which have adopted the euro (€) as their official currency.

Enlargement and Integration

The EU has expanded through the enlargement of the European Union, whereby new countries accede to the union. This process requires candidate countries to meet the Copenhagen criteria, which include stable institutions guaranteeing democracy, the rule of law, human rights, and a functioning market economy.

Supranational and Intergovernmental Elements

The EU is often described as a supranational union, as it involves a higher degree of integration than a typical international organization. Member states have delegated some of their decision-making powers to EU institutions, which can enact legislation in areas agreed upon by the members.

Citizenship and Rights

European Union citizenship is a legal status afforded to nationals of the member states. It grants rights such as the freedom to move and reside freely within the EU, the right to vote in European and local elections in any member state, and protection by the diplomatic and consular authorities of any other member state outside the EU.