Following WWII, European nations sought unity to promote peace and economic growth. This led to the formation of the EU, with six countries initially signing to promote cooperation
In 1951, Belgium, France, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, and West Germany signed the Treaty of Paris, creating the European Coal and Steel Community (ECSC) to strengthen economic bonds
The UK was invited to join but initially declined under its Labour government, prioritizing economic independence over EU membership
The ECSC established a High Authority, Council of Ministers, Assembly, and Court of Justice to oversee administration, policymaking, and conflict resolution, setting the framework for EU governance
In the 21st century, the EU expanded into Central and Eastern Europe. Today, its 27 members work together on shared economic, social, and security policies