Common questions about European Union

Short answers, pulled from the story.

When did the European Union begin and who proposed the initial idea?

The European Union began with the Schuman Declaration proposed by French statesman Robert Schuman on the 9th of May 1950. This declaration led to the Treaty of Paris signed on the 18th of April 1951 which established the European Coal and Steel Community.

How many member states are in the European Union and what is the population?

The European Union has grown to a bloc of 27 member states encompassing a population of over 450 million people. The union has expanded from the original six founding nations to include countries across the continent.

When was the euro currency introduced and how many countries use it?

The euro currency was introduced as a virtual currency in 1999 and physical notes and coins entered circulation in 2002. The euro is the official currency of 21 member states known collectively as the eurozone.

What are the carbon neutrality targets set by the European Green Deal?

The European Green Deal launched in 2019 sets a target of achieving carbon neutrality by 2050. The union has an interim goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 55% by 2030.

When did the United Kingdom leave the European Union and what was the result?

The United Kingdom withdrew from the European Union on the 31st of January 2020. This event marked the first time a member state has left the bloc.

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