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The European Union (EU) is a political and economic union of European states that aims to promote peace, stability, and shared prosperity through deeper integration. It operates through a system of institutions and negotiations that shape laws, markets, and policies across much of daily life, from trade and competition to the environment and foreign relations.

Membership and governance: The EU currently has 27 member states after the United Kingdom’s withdrawal in 2020. Its governance combines supranational and intergovernmental elements. The European Commission proposes legislation; the European Parliament, elected by EU citizens, co‑decides with the Council of the European Union. The European Council sets strategic direction, while the Council represents member governments. The Court of Justice interprets EU law, and the European Central Bank governs monetary policy for euro-area members.

Economy and policy: The EU administers a single market and a customs union, enabling the free movement of goods, services, capital, and people among most member states. Schengen Area rules allow passport-free travel across many members. The euro is used by 20 member states, forming the euro area. Common policies cover competition, agriculture (the Common Agricultural Policy), regional development, research and innovation, and external affairs. The EU’s budget funds investments and regional cohesion through multiannual financial frameworks.

History and enlargement: The EU traces its roots to postwar cooperation, beginning with the Coal and Steel Community (1951) and the European Economic Community (1957). The Maastricht Treaty (1993) established the EU, and the Lisbon Treaty (2009) reformed institutions. The Union expanded to include many Central and Eastern European states before the UK’s exit in 2020.

External role: The EU conducts trade policy, development aid, humanitarian assistance, and crisis management, pursuing a cohesive external posture aligned with shared values and standards.