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

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

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Scholz's Border Policy Shift: Too Little, Too Late for German Chancellor?

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German Opposition Pushes for Stricter Border Controls Amid Migration Debate

September 10 2024, 11:04 AM  •  202 views
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Apple Ordered to Pay €13bn in Irish Tax Case After EU Court Ruling

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Germany Tightens Border Controls to Combat Illegal Immigration

Germany Tightens Border Controls to Combat Illegal Immigration

September 9 2024, 11:28 PM  •  912 views
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Brexit Campaigner's Four-Year Ordeal: A Tale of Electoral Commission Scrutiny

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UK Businesses Wary of Hiring Amid Proposed Workers' Rights Overhaul

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Draghi's EU Competitiveness Plan: A Rehash of Past Strategies?

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Princess of Wales Completes Cancer Treatment, Focuses on Recovery

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EU Urged to Boost Joint Defense Spending Amid Global Shifts

EU Urged to Boost Joint Defense Spending Amid Global Shifts

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Apple's AI Dilemma: EU Regulations Delay iPhone 16 Features

Apple's AI Dilemma: EU Regulations Delay iPhone 16 Features

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Italy Challenges EU's 2035 Petrol Car Ban Amid Industry Concerns

September 9 2024, 09:38 AM  •  349 views
UK's Coal Era Ends: Ratcliffe-on-Soar Receives Final Delivery

UK's Coal Era Ends: Ratcliffe-on-Soar Receives Final Delivery

September 9 2024, 07:11 AM  •  1528 views
New French PM Faces Immigration Policy Pressure Amid Mixed Public Opinion

New French PM Faces Immigration Policy Pressure Amid Mixed Public Opinion

September 8 2024, 07:06 PM  •  467 views
Venezuelan Opposition Leader Flees to Spain Amid Political Turmoil

Venezuelan Opposition Leader Flees to Spain Amid Political Turmoil

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German Chancellor Scholz Aims for Re-election Despite Record-Low Approval

September 8 2024, 03:29 PM  •  125 views
France's Economic Paradox: Past Success vs. Current Fiscal Challenges

France's Economic Paradox: Past Success vs. Current Fiscal Challenges

September 8 2024, 02:08 PM  •  1231 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 •   •  82 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 •   •  1060 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 •   •  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 •   •  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 •   •  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  •  570 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  •  742 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  •  263 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  •  206 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  •  340 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  •  235 views
EU's Economic Decline: A Crisis of Competitiveness and Innovation

EU's Economic Decline: A Crisis of Competitiveness and Innovation

Europe faces severe economic stagnation and technological lag. EU's global GDP share plummets as strict regulations hinder innovation. Draghi's report calls for massive investment, but political obstacles loom large.

Economics, Politics • September 10 2024, 01:00 PM  •  207 views
Scholz's Border Policy Shift: Too Little, Too Late for German Chancellor?

Scholz's Border Policy Shift: Too Little, Too Late for German Chancellor?

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz's recent border control measures may not salvage his political future. Opposition leader Friedrich Merz gains ground as immigration concerns dominate upcoming elections.

Society, Politics • September 10 2024, 12:23 PM  •  317 views
German Opposition Pushes for Stricter Border Controls Amid Migration Debate

German Opposition Pushes for Stricter Border Controls Amid Migration Debate

Germany's opposition leader demands tougher immigration policies as the government announces additional border checks. Political tensions rise over migration control measures in response to recent events.

Society, Politics • September 10 2024, 11:04 AM  •  202 views
Apple Ordered to Pay €13bn in Irish Tax Case After EU Court Ruling

Apple Ordered to Pay €13bn in Irish Tax Case After EU Court Ruling

Apple loses decade-long tax dispute with EU, ordered to pay €13bn to Ireland. Court rules company received illegal state aid, decision final. Apple disagrees, maintains fair tax practices.

Business, Economics, Politics • September 10 2024, 09:35 AM  •  773 views
Germany Tightens Border Controls to Combat Illegal Immigration

Germany Tightens Border Controls to Combat Illegal Immigration

Germany announces stricter border measures starting September 16, 2024, to address illegal immigration and security concerns. The move comes amid rising far-right support and upcoming state elections.

Society, Politics • September 9 2024, 11:28 PM  •  912 views
Brexit Campaigner's Four-Year Ordeal: A Tale of Electoral Commission Scrutiny

Brexit Campaigner's Four-Year Ordeal: A Tale of Electoral Commission Scrutiny

Alan Halsall, Vote Leave's responsible person, endured a four-year investigation by the Electoral Commission. His story raises questions about individual rights and institutional impartiality in post-Brexit Britain.

Society, Politics • September 9 2024, 06:20 PM  •  356 views
UK Businesses Wary of Hiring Amid Proposed Workers' Rights Overhaul

UK Businesses Wary of Hiring Amid Proposed Workers' Rights Overhaul

Angela Rayner's employment rights bill sparks concern among UK businesses, with 57% less likely to hire. Low Pay Commission recommends 6% minimum wage increase, adding to cost pressures.

Business, Politics • September 9 2024, 06:11 PM  •  215 views
Draghi's EU Competitiveness Plan: A Rehash of Past Strategies?

Draghi's EU Competitiveness Plan: A Rehash of Past Strategies?

Former ECB chief Mario Draghi unveils a report on boosting EU competitiveness, proposing more integration and subsidies. Critics argue it fails to address core issues plaguing the bloc's economy.

Economics, Politics • September 9 2024, 05:53 PM  •  159 views
Princess of Wales Completes Cancer Treatment, Focuses on Recovery

Princess of Wales Completes Cancer Treatment, Focuses on Recovery

The Princess of Wales announces end of chemotherapy, shifting focus to staying cancer-free. Telegraph journalist David Knowles, creator of Ukraine podcast, passes away at 32.

Society, Business, Politics • September 9 2024, 04:58 PM  •  212 views
EU Urged to Boost Joint Defense Spending Amid Global Shifts

EU Urged to Boost Joint Defense Spending Amid Global Shifts

A landmark EU report calls for €800 billion annual investment in defense and industry, citing reduced US reliability and Russian threats. The report highlights urgent need for unified European security approach.

Economics, Politics • September 9 2024, 02:07 PM  •  178 views
Apple's AI Dilemma: EU Regulations Delay iPhone 16 Features

Apple's AI Dilemma: EU Regulations Delay iPhone 16 Features

Apple's new iPhone 16 will showcase AI capabilities, but EU users face a wait until 2025 due to regulatory hurdles. This delay exemplifies growing tensions between tech giants and European digital rules.

Business, Politics, Science • September 9 2024, 10:11 AM  •  290 views
Italy Challenges EU's 2035 Petrol Car Ban Amid Industry Concerns

Italy Challenges EU's 2035 Petrol Car Ban Amid Industry Concerns

Italy calls for a review of the EU's 2035 petrol car ban, citing industry concerns. Ministers criticize the policy as ideologically driven, while Volkswagen faces challenges in EV production and rising energy costs.

Economics, Politics • September 9 2024, 09:38 AM  •  349 views
UK's Coal Era Ends: Ratcliffe-on-Soar Receives Final Delivery

UK's Coal Era Ends: Ratcliffe-on-Soar Receives Final Delivery

The last coal shipment to Ratcliffe-on-Soar power station marks the end of coal-fired electricity in Britain after 142 years. This historic shift highlights the UK's transition to renewable energy sources and its commitment to reducing carbon emissions.

Society, Economics • September 9 2024, 07:11 AM  •  1528 views
New French PM Faces Immigration Policy Pressure Amid Mixed Public Opinion

New French PM Faces Immigration Policy Pressure Amid Mixed Public Opinion

Michel Barnier, France's newly appointed prime minister, confronts demands to implement stringent immigration measures. Public opinion remains divided on his selection, while left-wing protests emerge.

Society, Politics • September 8 2024, 07:06 PM  •  467 views
Venezuelan Opposition Leader Flees to Spain Amid Political Turmoil

Venezuelan Opposition Leader Flees to Spain Amid Political Turmoil

Edmundo González Urrutia, Venezuela's opposition leader, has been granted asylum in Spain following a disputed election and government crackdown. The move sparks international debate and tensions.

Economics, Politics • September 8 2024, 04:58 PM  •  230 views
German Chancellor Scholz Aims for Re-election Despite Record-Low Approval

German Chancellor Scholz Aims for Re-election Despite Record-Low Approval

Despite facing the lowest approval ratings in modern German history, Chancellor Olaf Scholz has announced his intention to seek re-election in 2025, citing media focus on coalition infighting as a factor in his unpopularity.

Society, Politics • September 8 2024, 03:29 PM  •  125 views
France's Economic Paradox: Past Success vs. Current Fiscal Challenges

France's Economic Paradox: Past Success vs. Current Fiscal Challenges

France's historical economic success faces a turning point as fiscal challenges mount. With high public debt and political resistance to austerity, the nation grapples with potential economic troubles ahead.

Economics, Politics • September 8 2024, 02:08 PM  •  1231 views