Decision Maker

European Union

The European Union (EU) is an economic and political coalition of 27 European countries, aimed at fostering peace, stability and prosperity across the continent by promoting integration and cooperation among its member states. Established by the Maastricht Treaty in 1993, the EU operates through a system of supranational governance and intergovernmental decision-making, implementing policies in areas such as internal market, agriculture, fisheries and regional development. The EU also has its own currency, the Euro, which is used by 19 of its members. Through its institutions and agencies, the EU addresses issues of substantial common concern like human rights, climate change, security, and international trade.