Thinking in English 364. What is the EU? (English Vocabulary Lesson)
Dec 1, 2025
Explore the complexities of the European Union, from its ambitious origins post-WWII to its core principles and main institutions. Delve into the differences between the Eurozone and the Schengen Area, highlighting the EU's successes in promoting peace and economic growth. Discuss criticisms around bureaucracy and democratic deficits, alongside the reasons behind Brexit. Finally, consider the future of the EU, including challenges and potential paths for deeper integration and expansion.
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What The EU Actually Is
- The EU is a political and economic union of 27 countries sharing power across areas like trade, law, environment and human rights.
- It sits between a traditional international organisation and a federation, with supranational laws that can override national ones.
Four Freedoms Drive Integration
- One core principle is the four freedoms: free movement of people, goods, services and capital across member states.
- These freedoms enable citizens to live and work across Europe and businesses to trade without tariffs.
How EU Institutions Work Together
- The EU operates through institutions with distinct roles: Commission proposes laws and enforces rules, Parliament is directly elected, and the Council represents national governments.
- The European Court of Justice ensures EU law is interpreted consistently and can settle disputes between states.