Overview
- A supranational political and economic union of European countries.
- Operates through common institutions, laws, and policies.
- Represents one of the deepest models of regional integration globally.
- Headquarters primarily in Brussels (institutions) and Luxembourg (courts).
Background
- Emerged after World War II to replace rivalry with cooperation and ensure lasting peace.
- Early integration focused on economic interdependence to prevent conflict.
- Key milestones include:
- Treaty of Paris (1951): European Coal and Steel Community.
- Treaty of Rome (1957): European Economic Community and Euratom.
- Merger Treaty (1965): Unified institutional framework.
- Schengen Agreement (1985): Passport-free travel.
- Single European Act (1986): Completion of the single market.
- Maastricht Treaty (1992): Formal creation of the EU, EU citizenship, CFSP.
- Euro introduction (1999–2002): Economic and Monetary Union.
- Lisbon Treaty (2007): Stronger democracy, efficiency, clarity.
- Expanded from six founding members to 27 countries.
Objectives
- Maintain peace, stability, and security across Europe.
- Uphold democracy, rule of law, human rights, equality, and freedom.
- Ensure free movement of goods, services, capital, and people.
- Promote sustainable development, social justice, and environmental protection.
- Support full employment, social cohesion, and innovation.
- Establish and manage an economic and monetary union, including the euro.
- Respect cultural and linguistic diversity while fostering European identity.
Membership
- Total members: 27 countries.
- Entry requires adherence to democratic norms, rule of law, and a functioning market economy.
- Eurozone: 21 members use the euro.
- Notable exit: United Kingdom left in 2020 (Brexit).
Institutional Structure
- European Council
- Sets overall political direction and priorities.
- Comprises heads of state or government.
- European Parliament
- Directly elected body representing EU citizens.
- Shares legislative and budgetary powers.
- Council of the European Union
- Represents member state governments.
- Co-legislates with the Parliament.
- European Commission
- Executive arm proposing laws and enforcing treaties.
- One Commissioner from each member state.
- Court of Justice of the European Union
- Ensures uniform interpretation and application of EU law.
- European Central Bank
- Manages monetary policy for euro-using states.
- European Court of Auditors
- Oversees use of EU funds and financial accountability.
Powers and Functions
- Economic integration through the Single Market and Eurozone management.
- Trade policy with collective negotiation of global trade agreements.
- Legislative authority via regulations and directives binding on members.
- Common policies in agriculture, environment, climate, energy, transport, research.
- Freedom, security, and justice including Schengen cooperation.
- Foreign and security coordination through joint diplomatic positions.
- Budgetary role via cohesion funds and regional development support.
- Protection of values such as democracy, equality, and non-discrimination.
India–EU Strategic Cooperation
- Partnership evolved from aid-based ties to strategic and economic collaboration.
- Cooperation spans trade, climate action, maritime security, counter-terrorism, and technology.
- EU is among India’s largest trading partners.
- Engagement through EU–India Development Dialogue and trade negotiations.
- Shared commitment to a rules-based international order and sustainable development.
Key Challenges
- Security pressures from geopolitical conflicts and regional instability.
- Energy dependence and high costs amid global disruptions.
- Sluggish growth, rising public debt, and global competition.
- Climate neutrality and digital transition requiring large investments.
- Demographic ageing, migration pressures, and social cohesion concerns.
- Rising nationalism and Euroscepticism affecting unity.
- Consensus-based decision-making slowing rapid policy responses.
