There are 54 countries in Europe. In 2013, 28 of these countries are members of the European Union.
The European Union (EU) was created in 1957, and was called the European Common Market.
At first, there were only six countries: Belgium, West Germany, France, Italy, Luxemburg and the Netherlands.
Denmark, Ireland and the United Kingdom became members in 1973.
Greece in 1981.
Spain and Portugal in 1986.
Austria, Finland and Sweden in 1995.
The largest addition of 10 new countries took place in 2004.
Croatia has become a member in 2013.
In the first years of existence, the EU was conceived as a commercial and economic union.
Currently, however, it also deals with other matters, such as citizen's rights, safety and justice, the creation of new jobs and environmental protection.
The European Union (EU) was created in 1957, and was called the European Common Market.
At first, there were only six countries: Belgium, West Germany, France, Italy, Luxemburg and the Netherlands.
Denmark, Ireland and the United Kingdom became members in 1973.
Greece in 1981.
Spain and Portugal in 1986.
Austria, Finland and Sweden in 1995.
The largest addition of 10 new countries took place in 2004.
Croatia has become a member in 2013.
In the first years of existence, the EU was conceived as a commercial and economic union.
Currently, however, it also deals with other matters, such as citizen's rights, safety and justice, the creation of new jobs and environmental protection.
Member states of the EU (year of entry)
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On the road to EU membership
1. Candidate Countries 2. Potential candidates |