Skip to content
Know.itKnow.it
Create an animated lesson
On request

This article is free to read. Creating a lesson uses your daily or stored credits; review the language and settings before starting.

What is the European Union (EU)?

Law & CivicsLesson on requestFree to read

Quick answer

The European Union (EU) is a political and economic union of 27 European countries that trade freely, share many laws, and cooperate closely. Most members use a common currency, the euro, and allow free movement of people and goods. 27 member countries cooperating economically and politically.

Key things to understand

  1. 27 member countries cooperating economically and politically.
  2. A single market lets goods, services, money, and people move freely.
  3. Many members share the euro currency.
  4. It sets shared rules and has its own parliament and institutions.

People also ask

What is the purpose of the EU?
To promote peace, prosperity, and cooperation through a shared market and common policies.
What is the eurozone?
The group of EU countries that use the euro as their currency.
Is the UK in the EU?
No — the UK left the EU ('Brexit') in 2020.