Member States of the European Union
The European Union (EU) is a unique supranational union comprising 27 member states that have committed to the organization’s founding treaties. This union enables member states to share sovereignty through various EU institutions, creating a distinct legal and political structure that governs multiple aspects of government, economy, and society.
Membership and Sovereignty
Each member state is bound by the legal framework set out in the EU treaties. The pooling of sovereignty among member states allows for collective decision-making in areas where actions taken individually would be ineffective or inefficient. This principle is known as subsidiarity, ensuring decisions are made as closely as possible to the citizens they affect.
Supranational Governance
The EU's governance involves several key institutions, including the European Commission, where each member state appoints a European Commissioner to represent its interests. The Council of the European Union and the European Parliament are other critical bodies that facilitate democratic decision-making within the union.
Legal Order and Obligations
The EU has developed its own legal order, which is supreme over national laws in areas covered by EU treaties. This supremacy was established through landmark rulings such as those by the European Court of Justice (ECJ). The legal obligations and privileges of membership include participating in initiatives like the European Single Market, which allows for the free movement of goods, services, people, and capital.
Enlargement and Special Territories
Over the decades, the EU has expanded through the enlargement process, welcoming new members and broadening its scope. However, some territories associated with member states have unique statuses. For instance, certain special territories within the European Economic Area (EEA) have different levels of participation in EU policies.
Political Systems and Neutrality
The member states of the EU employ various forms of political systems. Despite this diversity, all adhere to democratic principles and the rule of law. Additionally, the EU includes both military-neutral states and those engaged in collective defense through alliances such as NATO.
Economic Indicators
The economic landscape among EU member states varies significantly, with differences in population, minimum wages, and political systems. Despite these differences, the economic policies are often coordinated through EU mechanisms to ensure stability and growth across the region.
Passports and Citizenship
Citizens of the EU obtain citizenship of their respective member states, which grants them the rights conferred by EU citizenship, including the ability to move and reside freely within the union. Passports issued by member states follow a standardized design, reflecting the union's unity and shared identity.