Treaty of Rome and the Establishment of the European Economic Community
The Treaty of Rome, signed on March 25, 1957, is a foundational agreement that led to the creation of the European Economic Community (EEC). This historic treaty was instrumental in laying the groundwork for what would eventually become the European Union (EU), a political and economic union of member states located primarily in Europe.
Historical Context
The Treaty of Rome was signed in the aftermath of World War II, during a period characterized by a strong movement towards European integration. This movement was motivated by the desire to foster economic cooperation as a means to prevent future conflicts on the continent. The Treaty of Paris, which established the European Coal and Steel Community (ECSC) in 1951, served as a precursor to the Treaty of Rome.
Signatories and Objectives
The treaty was signed by the Inner Six, which included Belgium, France, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, and West Germany. These countries were committed to creating a common market and a customs union, thereby promoting economic integration and interdependence among the member nations.
Key Provisions
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Creation of a Common Market: The treaty aimed to eliminate trade barriers between member states, allowing for the free movement of goods, services, capital, and people.
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Customs Union: It established a common external tariff on imports coming from non-member countries, thereby unifying the trade policies of the member states.
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Common Policies: The treaty called for common policies in areas such as transport and agriculture, which would later lead to the development of the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP).
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Establishment of Institutions: The treaty established several key institutions, including the European Commission, the Council of the European Economic Community, the European Parliamentary Assembly, and the European Court of Justice, which were tasked with overseeing the implementation of the treaty's provisions.
Long-Term Impact
The Treaty of Rome has had a profound and lasting impact on the trajectory of European integration. It laid the foundation for subsequent treaties, such as the Single European Act, the Maastricht Treaty, and the Treaty of Lisbon, which have further deepened and expanded the scope of the EU. The treaty's focus on economic integration has been crucial in establishing a stable and prosperous Europe, leading to the EU's current status as a major global economic and political entity.