How has the European Union improved the lives of European citizens?

The EU has delivered more than half a century of peace, stability and prosperity, helped raise living standards and launched a single European currency: the euro. More than 340 million EU citizens in 19 countries now use it as their currency and enjoy its benefits.

What was the main purpose for creating the European Union?

The European Union is set up with the aim of ending the frequent and bloody wars between neighbours, which culminated in the Second World War. As of 1950, the European Coal and Steel Community begins to unite European countries economically and politically in order to secure lasting peace.

What does the EU provide funding for?

The EU provides funding for a broad range of projects and programmes covering areas such as: regional & urban development. employment & social inclusion. agriculture & rural development.

How does the EU affect our everyday lives?

You can travel, study, work and live in any EU country. Anyone can decide where they want to live or look for work. Free movement of people is possible thanks to the EU´s single market. The EU has removed barriers to free trade between its members.

How do I get funding from the EU?

To access EU grants, you should apply via the relevant regional or national authorities (known as managing authorities) in the member state where you are registered. The Ministry of Agriculture in your country is responsible for funding for the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development.

Why is the EU a good place to invest?

The EU is one of the most open places to invest in the world. Since 2009 the EU handles foreign direct investment policies on behalf of EU members. EU investment policy aims to: secure a level playing field so that EU investors abroad are not discriminated or mistreated;

What is the European Investment Plan for Europe?

It will bring together under one roof the European Fund for Strategic Investments and 13 other EU financial instruments currently supporting investment, making EU funding simpler to access and more effective.

What are the aims of the EU investment policy?

EU investment policy aims to: promote investment that supports sustainable development, respect for human rights and high labour and environmental standards. This includes encouraging corporate social responsibility and responsible business practices;

What is the role of the EU in international trade?

The priority of the EU in the international trade and investment order is to provide leadership in supporting the open, rules-based order at a time when it faces its most severe test since the establishment of the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT) more than 70 years ago.