The European Union
The European Union (EU) was formed by the signing of the Maastricht Treaty in 1992. The goal was to create a political and economic union to ensure peace and stability among its members.
Its history, however, can be traced back to 1957 with the Treaty of Rome. Belgium, France, Italy, Luxembourg, Netherlands, and West Germany (now part of Germany) formed this alliance for economic cooperation.
Over the decades, other agreements were made among other European countries that brought about further cooperation.
The Treaty of Amsterdam (1987), The Treaty of Maastricht Nice (2001), and the Treaty of Lisbon (2007), have all added amendments that have given shape to what we know the European Union as oday.
In 1995, Austria, Finland, and Sweden became member nations with Cyprus, Czechia, Estonia, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, Malta, Poland, Slovakia, and Slovenia joining in 2004. Two more nations, Bulgaria and Romania, would join in 2007 with the final nation of Croatia joining in 2013.
Primary Objectives of the EU
One of the core purposes of the EU is to foster economic integration among its member states. This is achieved through the establishment of a single market, which allows for the free movement of goods, services, capital, and labor across national borders. The EU also aims to coordinate economic policies and promote trade among its members to enhance economic growth and competitiveness.
The EU aims to promote political cooperation and dialogue among its member states to prevent conflicts and promote democratic values, human rights, and the rule of law. Through institutions such as the European Parliament, the Council of the European Union, and the European Commission, member states work together to address common challenges and work toward shared goals.
One of the fundamental purposes of the EU is to promote peace and security in Europe. The EU emerged from the ashes of World War II with the aim of preventing future conflicts on the continent. Through mechanisms such as the Common Foreign and Security Policy (CFSP) and the European Defense Agency (EDA), the EU seeks to promote stability and security both within its borders and beyond.
The EU aims to promote social cohesion and solidarity among its member states by reducing disparities in wealth, income, and opportunities. Through policies such as regional development funds, social protection programs, and initiatives to combat discrimination and promote equality, the EU seeks to create a more inclusive and equitable society for all its citizens.
The EU is committed to promoting environmental sustainability and combating climate change. Through initiatives such as the European Green Deal and the Paris Agreement, the EU seeks to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, promote renewable energy sources, and protect biodiversity to ensure a sustainable future for current and future generations.
Brexit
Brexit, or British Exit, refers to Great Britain leaving the European Union in January 2020. One of the key drivers behind Brexit was a desire among some people in Britain for greater sovereignty and control over their own laws and regulations.
Many Brexit supporters were also concerned about the perceived lack of control over immigration from other EU countries, which they believed put pressure on public services and lowered wages. They sought to regain control over immigration policy by leaving the EU and implementing stricter border controls.
Economic arguments played a part in the Brexit debate as well. Some proponents of Brexit argued that leaving the EU would allow Great Britain to create its own trade agreements with other countries outside the EU, potentially leading to increased economic opportunities. However, opponents of Brexit warned of potential economic risks, such as trade disruption, loss of access to the EU single market, and reduced investment.
Overall, Brexit occurred because of many complex factors, including concerns about sovereignty, immigration, economics, and political divisions. The decision to leave the EU was a major shift in British politics and has had far-reaching implications for Great Britain's relationship with the EU and its position on the global stage.