European Community
The European Community (EC) was a significant stage in the evolution of European integration, which later transformed into the European Union (EU). Here's an in-depth look at its history, structure, and impact:
History
- Foundation: The EC was established by the Treaty of Rome in 1957, which was signed by Belgium, France, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, and West Germany. This treaty laid the foundation for the creation of the European Economic Community (EEC) and the European Atomic Energy Community (EAEC or Euratom).
- Merger: In 1965, the Merger Treaty (also known as the Brussels Treaty) combined the executives of the EEC, Euratom, and the European Coal and Steel Community (ECSC), creating a single set of institutions for what became known as the European Communities.
- Expansion: Over the years, the EC expanded its membership through several enlargements, with countries like the UK, Denmark, and Ireland joining in 1973, followed by Greece in 1981, and Spain and Portugal in 1986.
- Single European Act: In 1986, the Single European Act was signed, which aimed at completing the internal market by 1992, leading to the removal of barriers to trade and travel within the Community.
- Maastricht Treaty: The Maastricht Treaty of 1992 marked a pivotal moment, transforming the European Communities into the European Union, with the introduction of the three pillars system, which included the EC, Common Foreign and Security Policy (CFSP), and Justice and Home Affairs (JHA).
Structure
- Institutions: The EC was governed by several key institutions:
- Objectives: The main goals were economic integration, the establishment of a common market, and the coordination of economic policies among member states.
Impact
- Economic: The EC facilitated the free movement of goods, capital, services, and people, significantly enhancing economic growth and trade within Europe.
- Political: It promoted peace, stability, and democracy in Europe post-World War II, setting the stage for deeper political integration.
- Social: Policies were developed to improve living and working conditions, and to reduce disparities between regions and social groups.
References
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