7 June 2022

European identity

Real European identity is difficult to discern among European nationals. This is due to the lack of a connection based on loyalty and reciprocity, both of which are essential components of the traditional idea of “one people.”

History of EU

Understanding the concept of “European identity” requires a trip down memory lane. First, Winston Churchill proposed the establishment of a “United States of Europe” as a potential solution to the problems of maintaining peace, safety, and freedom in Europe. In 1949, ten nations banded together to establish the first European organization: the Council of Europe. The European Coal and Steel Community (ECSC) was established in 1952 with the intention of creating a common market for the coal and steel sectors by putting them under the administration of a supranational organization.

The European Union as we know it now is a product of these processes.

Key Facts & Figures

  • At the moment, there are 27 nations that are members of the EU, and there are 24 official languages.
  • Approximately 447.7 million people call the EU home. France is the EU’s biggest nation in terms of land area, while Malta is the smallest.
  • The European Union is a single market that trades worldwide and among its members.

Principles of European identity

  • Aim of EU

The EU’s global objectives are to protect and advance its values and interests. Contribute to global peace and security and sustainable development. Contribute to international solidarity and mutual respect, free and fair commerce, the eradication of poverty, and the protection of human rights.

  • Values of EU

The European Union is based on the ideals listed below:

    • Human dignity
      Human dignity cannot be violated. It must be maintained and preserved, since it is the true foundation of basic rights.
    • Democracy
      The right to move freely across the Union is conferred upon people under the concept of freedom of movement. The EU Charter of Fundamental Rights ensures the protection of individual liberties such as the right to one’s own private life, freedom of opinion and religion, freedom of assembly and speech, and freedom of information.
    • Equality
      All people should have the same rights under the law, and that is what equality is all about. All European policies and European integration rest on the equality principle between men and women. It’s universally applicable. In 1957, the Treaty of Rome codified the idea of equal compensation for equal effort.
    • Rule of law
      The EU’s foundation is the rule of law. Everything the EU does is based on treaties that its member states have deliberately and democratically ratified. A judiciary that is independent upholds the law and justice. The EU member states granted the European Court of Justice ultimate authority; its decisions must be respected by everyone.
    • Human rights
      The European Union Charter of Fundamental Rights protects human rights. These include the right to be free from discrimination based on sex, ethnicity, religion or belief, disability, age, or sexual orientation, the right to the protection of your private data, and the right to access the court system.

Important Facts

! Article 2 of the Lisbon Treaty and the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights outline the EU’s ideals.

! The European Union was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2012 for promoting peace, reconciliation, democracy, and human rights throughout Europe.

Sources