The European Union (EU) is unique grouping of 27 European Governments that have agreed to make a joint response to today’s challenges. Over the years, the member governments of the EU have created a number of Institutions to enable the EU to perform its designated tasks. Through Intergovernmental Conferences (IGCs) these governments created and amended the Treaties upon which the EU is based. These Treaties have, in turn, altered the powers and responsibilities of the Institutions in response to new challenges.

What is the European Union (EU)?
The EU is the result of a process of co-operation and integration, which began in 1951 between six countries. After nearly 50 years and six waves of accessions there are now 27 member states.

The 'EU' name came into use on 1 November 1993 when the Maastricht Treaty entered into force. The EU united under one 'roof' the three 'pillars' of European co-operation. These are:

 

In the first pillar, the member governments act as the Council (often taking decisions by majority vote) with the full involvement of the other EU institutions. In the second and third pillars, decisions are based on intergovernmental processes. This means that Member States act together to reach a joint position based on consensus. Other Community institutions, such as the European Commission and the European Parliament have a more limited role in these pillars.

 

How does the European Union benefit Britain?
Membership of the EU benefits many aspects of British life. Increasing numbers of people in the UK work for companies that rely on trade and investment that the single market brings. Many people also benefit from EU funded education, training and environmental projects.

 

Where can I find further information about the European Union?
For more information about Britain’s membership of the EU, the history of the EU, EU policies, EU enlargement and the EU's relations with the rest of the world, visit the Foreign and Commonwealth Office’s EU pages.