European Union

The European Union (EU) is a supranational political and economic union of 27 member states that are located primarily in Europe. The Union has a total area of 4,233,255 km2 (1,634,469 sq mi) and an estimated total population of over 449 million. The EU has often been described as a sui generis political entity combining the characteristics of both a federation and a confederation.
european-union

Some of the key events about European Union

  • 1951
    Establishment of the European Coal and Steel Community, laying the foundation for European integration
  • 1957
    Signing of the Treaty of Rome, creating the European Economic Community and Euratom
  • 1968
    Completion of the customs union, eliminating customs duties between member states
  • 1979
    First direct elections to the European Parliament, enhancing democratic representation
  • 1985
    Adoption of the Schengen Agreement, paving the way for borderless travel within Europe
  • 1992
    Signing of the Maastricht Treaty, establishing the European Union and laying groundwork for the euro
  • 1992
    The Danish rejection of the Maastricht Treaty in a referendum temporarily halted EU integration efforts
  • 1999
    Introduction of the euro as an accounting currency, promoting economic integration
  • 1999
    The entire European Commission resigned due to allegations of corruption and mismanagement
  • 2002
    Physical euro coins and banknotes enter circulation in 12 EU countries
  • 2003
    Disagreements over the Iraq War exposed divisions within the EU on foreign policy
  • 2004
    Largest single expansion of the EU, with 10 new countries joining
  • 2005
    French and Dutch voters rejected the proposed EU Constitution in referendums
  • 2008
    The EU's response to the global financial crisis was criticized as slow and inadequate
  • 2010
    The European debt crisis began, exposing weaknesses in the Eurozone's economic structure
  • 2012
    EU awarded Nobel Peace Prize for advancing peace, reconciliation, democracy, and human rights in Europe
  • 2015
    The EU struggled to develop a unified response to the European migrant crisis
  • 2016
    The United Kingdom voted to leave the European Union in the Brexit referendum
  • 2018
    The EU faced criticism for its handling of rule of law concerns in member states like Poland and Hungary
  • 2020
    Initial EU response to the COVID-19 pandemic was criticized for lack of coordination and solidarity

Disclaimer: This material is written based on information taken from open sources, including Wikipedia, news media, podcasts, and other public sources.

European Union Latest news

Flag Controversy Sparks Debate at Proms Finale

Flag Controversy Sparks Debate at Proms Finale

September 14 2024, 08:07 PM  •  531 views
New EU Deforestation Rules Spark Concerns Over Northern Ireland Beef Trade

New EU Deforestation Rules Spark Concerns Over Northern Ireland Beef Trade

September 14 2024, 06:39 PM  •  419 views
Vandalized Ulez Cameras in London Lead to Incorrect Fines

Vandalized Ulez Cameras in London Lead to Incorrect Fines

September 14 2024, 05:26 PM  •  269 views
European Parliament Fined for Whistleblower Protection Failure

European Parliament Fined for Whistleblower Protection Failure

September 14 2024, 05:01 PM  •  314 views
Le Pen Predicts Brief Tenure for New French PM Barnier

Le Pen Predicts Brief Tenure for New French PM Barnier

September 14 2024, 01:18 PM  •  183 views
UK Grapples with Immigration Surge as EU Tightens Borders

UK Grapples with Immigration Surge as EU Tightens Borders

September 14 2024, 05:23 AM  •  729 views
Austrian Woman Convicted in Fatal COVID-19 Transmission Case

Austrian Woman Convicted in Fatal COVID-19 Transmission Case

September 13 2024, 05:47 PM  •  100 views
Meta Nears UK Deal for AI Data Use, Diverging from EU Approach

Meta Nears UK Deal for AI Data Use, Diverging from EU Approach

September 13 2024, 01:08 PM  •  160 views
UK and US Weigh Allowing Ukraine to Use Long-Range Missiles in Russia

UK and US Weigh Allowing Ukraine to Use Long-Range Missiles in Russia

September 12 2024, 08:14 PM  •  1109 views
Labour's NHS Rescue Plan: Public Health Measures and Financial Challenges

Labour's NHS Rescue Plan: Public Health Measures and Financial Challenges

September 12 2024, 04:42 PM  •  46 views
EU's Economic Strategies: A History of Ambitious Plans and Limited Results

EU's Economic Strategies: A History of Ambitious Plans and Limited Results

September 12 2024, 04:30 PM  •  29 views
Mpox Crisis Escalates in Africa: Over 100 Deaths in One Week

Mpox Crisis Escalates in Africa: Over 100 Deaths in One Week

September 12 2024, 04:14 PM  •  69 views
New EU Border Checks Threaten UK Food Supply Chain Disruption

New EU Border Checks Threaten UK Food Supply Chain Disruption

September 12 2024, 02:09 PM  •  604 views
Labour's Statism: A Historical Pattern Resurfaces in Starmer's Vision

Labour's Statism: A Historical Pattern Resurfaces in Starmer's Vision

September 12 2024, 10:39 AM  •  755 views
London's Homelessness Crisis: A Tale of Two Cities

London's Homelessness Crisis: A Tale of Two Cities

September 11 2024, 06:06 AM  •  120 views
Biden Considers Lifting Ban on UK Missiles for Ukraine's Use in Russia

Biden Considers Lifting Ban on UK Missiles for Ukraine's Use in Russia

September 10 2024, 07:43 PM  •  191 views
UK Introduces £10 Travel Permit for US and EU Visitors from 2025

UK Introduces £10 Travel Permit for US and EU Visitors from 2025

September 10 2024, 07:09 PM  •  306 views
Mel Stride Exits Tory Leadership Race: A Look at His Political Journey

Mel Stride Exits Tory Leadership Race: A Look at His Political Journey

September 10 2024, 06:32 PM  •  254 views
Germany's Border Control Shift Challenges EU Free Movement Principle

Germany's Border Control Shift Challenges EU Free Movement Principle

September 10 2024, 05:29 PM  •  414 views
Telegraph's 'Ukraine: The Latest' Podcast: Your Daily War Analysis Hub

Telegraph's 'Ukraine: The Latest' Podcast: Your Daily War Analysis Hub

September 10 2024, 04:12 PM  •  316 views
Lib Dem Leader Challenges Labour's 'Doom and Gloom' Approach

Lib Dem Leader Challenges Labour's 'Doom and Gloom' Approach

Sir Ed Davey criticizes Labour's pessimism and Conservative inaction, urging a hopeful approach to Britain's challenges. Lib Dems aim to become official opposition after recent electoral gains.

Society, Politics •   •  159 views
Germany Tightens Border Controls, Sparking Debate on EU Open Borders

Germany Tightens Border Controls, Sparking Debate on EU Open Borders

Germany introduces passport checks at all land borders, intensifying controls on the Polish frontier. The move, aimed at curbing migration and appeasing far-right parties, raises concerns about the future of the Schengen zone.

Society, Politics •   •  778 views
Liberal Democrat Councillor Claims Brexit-Induced PTSD

Liberal Democrat Councillor Claims Brexit-Induced PTSD

A Liberal Democrat councillor reports having PTSD due to Brexit, highlighting the party's pro-EU stance. The party leader criticizes Labour's position on single market membership.

Society, Politics •   •  49 views
Starmer's Migrant Policy Shift: Lessons from Italy's Albania Deal

Starmer's Migrant Policy Shift: Lessons from Italy's Albania Deal

Labour leader Keir Starmer expresses interest in Italy's migrant agreement with Albania, marking a shift from his previous stance. The deal, unlike the UK's Rwanda plan, operates within European legal frameworks.

Society, Politics •   •  64 views
Hundreds Attempt Mass Border Crossing from Morocco to Spanish Enclave Ceuta

Hundreds Attempt Mass Border Crossing from Morocco to Spanish Enclave Ceuta

Moroccan security forces thwarted a coordinated attempt by hundreds of migrants to cross into Ceuta, a Spanish enclave in North Africa. The incident, linked to a social media campaign, highlights ongoing migration pressures in the region.

Society, Politics •   •  105 views
Poland Urges EU to Cut Benefits for Draft-Eligible Ukrainian Refugees

Poland Urges EU to Cut Benefits for Draft-Eligible Ukrainian Refugees

Polish foreign minister proposes stopping social security payments to Ukrainian men of fighting age in EU countries to encourage their return and enlistment. Ukraine supports the idea amid ongoing conflict with Russia.

Society, Politics •   •  14 views
UK Security at Risk: Chinese EVs Raise Concerns in Government Fleet

UK Security at Risk: Chinese EVs Raise Concerns in Government Fleet

A think tank warns of potential security threats from Chinese-made electric vehicles in UK government use, citing data transmission and remote control risks. Calls for bans on certain manufacturers emerge.

Politics •   •  292 views
Channel Crossing Tragedy: Eight Migrants Feared Dead Near French Coast

Channel Crossing Tragedy: Eight Migrants Feared Dead Near French Coast

A migrant boat accident off the French coast has resulted in eight feared deaths. This incident follows a recent tragedy and marks a significant increase in Channel crossing fatalities compared to last year.

Society, Politics • September 15 2024, 07:48 AM  •  1811 views
Starmer Eyes Albania for Migrant Processing, Inspired by Italian Model

Starmer Eyes Albania for Migrant Processing, Inspired by Italian Model

Labour leader Keir Starmer expresses interest in Albania-based migrant processing, following Italy's successful model. He plans to discuss migration strategies with Italian PM Giorgia Meloni in Rome.

Society, Politics • September 14 2024, 09:05 PM  •  1226 views
UK Elderly Face Challenges in Accessing GP Services

UK Elderly Face Challenges in Accessing GP Services

Half of patients struggle to contact GPs by phone, with elderly particularly affected. Digital systems pose barriers for vulnerable groups, raising concerns about equal access to healthcare.

Society, Politics • September 14 2024, 08:08 PM  •  604 views
Flag Controversy Sparks Debate at Proms Finale

Flag Controversy Sparks Debate at Proms Finale

Inconsistent enforcement of flag policy at the Last Night of the Proms leads to confusion and debate. Pro-EU activists and traditional attendees clash over the event's political symbolism.

Politics, Culture • September 14 2024, 08:07 PM  •  531 views
New EU Deforestation Rules Spark Concerns Over Northern Ireland Beef Trade

New EU Deforestation Rules Spark Concerns Over Northern Ireland Beef Trade

Upcoming EU deforestation regulation in Northern Ireland raises fears of a "hard beef border" with Britain. The law, effective January 1, 2025, requires geolocation data for certain products, potentially impacting trade.

Business, Politics • September 14 2024, 06:39 PM  •  419 views
Vandalized Ulez Cameras in London Lead to Incorrect Fines

Vandalized Ulez Cameras in London Lead to Incorrect Fines

Tampered Ulez cameras in Chingford, London, resulted in wrongful fines for motorists. Transport for London promises to cancel incorrect penalties amid ongoing vandalism issues.

Society, Politics • September 14 2024, 05:26 PM  •  269 views
European Parliament Fined for Whistleblower Protection Failure

European Parliament Fined for Whistleblower Protection Failure

The European Parliament faces a €10,000 fine for failing to protect a whistleblower. This comes amid controversy over a potential EU Commission appointment and ongoing scrutiny of the institution's integrity.

Society, Politics • September 14 2024, 05:01 PM  •  314 views
Le Pen Predicts Brief Tenure for New French PM Barnier

Le Pen Predicts Brief Tenure for New French PM Barnier

Marine Le Pen forecasts Michel Barnier's term as French Prime Minister will last less than a year. The National Rally leader's statement comes amid political tensions following recent elections that resulted in a hung parliament.

Society, Politics • September 14 2024, 01:18 PM  •  183 views
UK Grapples with Immigration Surge as EU Tightens Borders

UK Grapples with Immigration Surge as EU Tightens Borders

As Germany tightens border controls, the UK faces record immigration levels. Post-Brexit policy changes and global events have led to unexpected outcomes, challenging both nations' approaches to migration management.

Society, Politics • September 14 2024, 05:23 AM  •  729 views
Austrian Woman Convicted in Fatal COVID-19 Transmission Case

Austrian Woman Convicted in Fatal COVID-19 Transmission Case

A 54-year-old Austrian woman has been found guilty of causing her neighbor's death by transmitting COVID-19. The case highlights the legal consequences of violating pandemic-related health measures.

Society, Politics • September 13 2024, 05:47 PM  •  100 views
Meta Nears UK Deal for AI Data Use, Diverging from EU Approach

Meta Nears UK Deal for AI Data Use, Diverging from EU Approach

Meta is close to an agreement with UK regulators to use British Facebook and Instagram data for AI training, marking a departure from EU policies. This move highlights the UK's potential for more flexible AI regulation.

Business, Politics, Science • September 13 2024, 01:08 PM  •  160 views
UK and US Weigh Allowing Ukraine to Use Long-Range Missiles in Russia

UK and US Weigh Allowing Ukraine to Use Long-Range Missiles in Russia

Foreign Secretary David Lammy emphasizes the need to support Ukraine's victory. Discussions on missile use and defense spending increase as the conflict enters a crucial phase.

Society, Politics • September 12 2024, 08:14 PM  •  1109 views
Labour's NHS Rescue Plan: Public Health Measures and Financial Challenges

Labour's NHS Rescue Plan: Public Health Measures and Financial Challenges

Labour Party considers extensive public health interventions to address NHS crisis. UK faces financial hurdles due to aging population and rising debt, as OBR warns of unsustainable path.

Society, Economics, Politics • September 12 2024, 04:42 PM  •  46 views
EU's Economic Strategies: A History of Ambitious Plans and Limited Results

EU's Economic Strategies: A History of Ambitious Plans and Limited Results

The European Union's repeated attempts at economic growth strategies have yielded limited success. A new report by Mario Draghi faces similar challenges, raising questions about the EU's ability to adapt and reform.

Economics, Politics • September 12 2024, 04:30 PM  •  29 views
Mpox Crisis Escalates in Africa: Over 100 Deaths in One Week

Mpox Crisis Escalates in Africa: Over 100 Deaths in One Week

A mutated mpox strain has caused a surge in fatalities across Africa, with children disproportionately affected. The outbreak highlights global vaccine inequalities and resource shortages in affected regions.

Society, Science • September 12 2024, 04:14 PM  •  69 views
New EU Border Checks Threaten UK Food Supply Chain Disruption

New EU Border Checks Threaten UK Food Supply Chain Disruption

Logistics UK warns of potential delays due to new EU Entry/Exit System. Fingerprint and facial recognition checks could disrupt food deliveries, with concerns over extended processing times and long queues at border crossings.

Business, Economics, Politics • September 12 2024, 02:09 PM  •  604 views
Labour's Statism: A Historical Pattern Resurfaces in Starmer's Vision

Labour's Statism: A Historical Pattern Resurfaces in Starmer's Vision

Labour's historical reliance on state intervention resurfaces in Keir Starmer's 2024 manifesto. Critics argue this approach may hinder economic growth, echoing past challenges faced by the party.

Economics, Politics • September 12 2024, 10:39 AM  •  755 views
London's Homelessness Crisis: A Tale of Two Cities

London's Homelessness Crisis: A Tale of Two Cities

London grapples with a stark contrast between wealth and homelessness, exacerbated by EU enlargement and immigration. Foreign nationals now comprise over half of the city's rough sleepers, sparking debates on solutions and policies.

Society, Politics • September 11 2024, 06:06 AM  •  120 views
Biden Considers Lifting Ban on UK Missiles for Ukraine's Use in Russia

Biden Considers Lifting Ban on UK Missiles for Ukraine's Use in Russia

US President Joe Biden is contemplating policy changes to allow Ukraine to use British Storm Shadow missiles against Russia, prompted by Iran's supply of ballistic missiles to Moscow.

Politics • September 10 2024, 07:43 PM  •  191 views
UK Introduces £10 Travel Permit for US and EU Visitors from 2025

UK Introduces £10 Travel Permit for US and EU Visitors from 2025

The UK will require a £10 Electronic Travel Authorization for non-visa visitors from the US and EU starting in 2025. The system aims to enhance border security and immigration control.

Society, Politics • September 10 2024, 07:09 PM  •  306 views
Mel Stride Exits Tory Leadership Race: A Look at His Political Journey

Mel Stride Exits Tory Leadership Race: A Look at His Political Journey

Mel Stride, eliminated from the Tory leadership contest with 16 votes, leaves behind a legacy of moderate politics and unity-focused approach. His career spans various government roles and policy proposals aimed at younger voters.

Society, Politics • September 10 2024, 06:32 PM  •  254 views
Germany's Border Control Shift Challenges EU Free Movement Principle

Germany's Border Control Shift Challenges EU Free Movement Principle

Germany announces strict border controls, signaling a potential shift in EU free movement policy. This decision, driven by immigration pressures, marks a significant change for one of the EU's key members.

Society, Politics • September 10 2024, 05:29 PM  •  414 views
Telegraph's 'Ukraine: The Latest' Podcast: Your Daily War Analysis Hub

Telegraph's 'Ukraine: The Latest' Podcast: Your Daily War Analysis Hub

The Telegraph's 'Ukraine: The Latest' podcast offers comprehensive daily updates on the war, featuring expert analysis and on-ground reporting. With over 70 million listens, it's a go-to source for war insights.

Society, Politics, Culture • September 10 2024, 04:12 PM  •  316 views