The EU: Aims

The EU: Aims

  • Promotion of peace and well-being of citizens: The EU seeks to prevent another destructive war in Europe by creating an environment of stability, peace, and prosperity.

  • Freedom, security, and justice without internal borders: Facilitation of free movement of people, goods, services, and capital within the EU. This includes things like the Schengen Agreement, which got rid of passport controls between many EU countries.

  • Balanced and sustainable development: This goal involves economic growth but also protecting the environment. Policies include the Common Agricultural Policy and the 20-20-20 targets to combat climate change.

  • Inclusive societies, equality, and the promotion of social justice and protection: The EU creates laws to protect workers and also has a Charter of Fundamental Rights, which sets out the civil, political, and social rights of all EU citizens.

  • Promotion of scientific and technological progress: This includes funding for research and innovation through programmes like Horizon 2020.

  • Respect for cultural and linguistic diversity: The EU believes that by protecting and promoting the different cultures and languages within it, they can create a sense of unity within diversity.

  • Strengthen its global position: The EU aims to have a strong collective international presence, in issues like trade and climate change. Key policies in this area include the Common Foreign and Security Policy.

Remember that the EU’s stated aims often interlink and overlap with each other, as they are all part of the overall objective of creating a prosperous, secure and democratic Europe.