Fundamentals
After World War II the efforts increased, to find a structure to permanently integrate the states of Europe.
Based on ideas of the French Secretary of State, Robert Schuman, France and Germany integrated their steal and coal industry under a joint roof.
Already 1952 France, Italy, Belgium and the Netherlands joined and the partners agreed to set up a plan for the future to integrate politics as well. The Treaty of Rome became effective in 1958, establishing the EEC, the European Economic Community. This community should create on the long range the 4 freedoms between the participating countries: free exchange of merchandise, persons, capital and services.
1973 Denmark, Ireland and the UK joined, 1981 Greece, 1986 Portugal and Spain, 1990 the former German Democratic Republic.
The Treaty of Maastricht 1992 changed the name into European Union (EU) and established a more precise timetable for the unification process, increasing the degree of integration too. Especially with respect to monetary union, for which it established precise rules, and political cooperation this treaty marks a milestone.
1995 Sweden, Finland and Austria joined.
2004 Estonia. Lithuvia, Lettland, Poland, Tchekoslovakia, Slowakia, Hunary, Slovenia, Malta and Cyprus joined.
2007 Romania and Bulgaria joined.
Today there are 27 nations:
last modified: 12/04/07 08:10